Nepal Police Club (NPC), based in Kathmandu, is one of Nepal’s oldest and most respected football clubs. Formed as part of the Nepal Police Force, the club is known for its discipline, physical fitness, and tactical structure, making it a formidable force in Nepali football for decades.

Overview

• Full Name: Nepal Police Club

• Formerly Known As: Mahendra Police Club

• Location: Kathmandu, Nepal

• Founded: 1952

• League: Martyr’s Memorial A-Division League

• Home Ground: Nepal Police Academy Ground, Maharajgunj (also uses Dasarath Stadium)

• Club Colors: Red and Blue

• Ownership: Nepal Police Headquarters

• Major Achievements: 7-time A-Division League Champions

History and Background

Established in 1952 as Mahendra Police Club, the team was created to promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and physical excellence within the police force. Over the years, the club transitioned into a national football powerhouse, competing consistently in the country’s top league.

Timeline Highlights

• 1950s–1980s: Dominated early football tournaments in Nepal

• 1990s–2000s: Consistent title winners and national contenders

• 2010s–Present: Competitive but rebuilding in the face of rising private clubs

Achievements

Martyr’s Memorial A-Division League

Nepal Police Club has secured the national league title seven times, tying them with some of the top clubs in terms of overall championships.

• Champions: 1973, 1975, 1979, 1980, 2006–07, 2010, 2011

• Runners-up: Frequently finished among top 3 teams

 Cup Tournaments

• Aaha! Rara Gold Cup, Birat Gold Cup, and Independence Cup – multiple wins

• Known for strong performances in military and government tournaments

Style of Play and Identity

As a departmental team, NPC has long been associated with:

• Physical fitness and endurance

• Structured and tactical discipline

• Tough defensive organization

• Preference for pragmatic, result-oriented football

International Competitions

NPC has represented Nepal in AFC competitions, such as:

• AFC President’s Cup – Played in 2007, 2008

• Consistently competitive at South Asian Police and Security Forces tournaments

Player Development

Nepal Police Club has played a vital role in developing national team players. Many of Nepal’s football legends began their careers with NPC or were long-time players.

Notable Alumni

• Rakesh Shrestha – National team defender

• Sagar Thapa – Former captain of the national team

• Bikash Malla – Prominent goalkeeper

• Nirajan Khadka – Midfield maestro

• The club has also recruited from military and youth football programs across Nepal

Coaching and Management

The club is managed by officers of the Nepal Police Force, and coaches are often former players or sports-trained personnel within the department. Their approach blends football tactics with disciplinary and military training principles.

Community and Fanbase

Though not as commercially driven as private clubs, NPC commands great respect among:

• Police families and service personnel

• Loyal fans who admire structured play

• General football supporters across the Kathmandu Valley

Rivalries

NPC has long-standing rivalries with traditional football powerhouses in Nepal:

• Three Star Club – A clash of disciplined vs. dynamic football

• Manang Marshyangdi Club – Historic title rivals

• APF Club (Armed Police Force) – A security forces derby

Trivia

• NPC was originally formed as Mahendra Police Club, named after King Mahendra.

• The club trains at the Nepal Police Academy, combining physical drills with tactical sessions.

• Known for zero tolerance toward indiscipline, both on and off the field.

• Often fields teams in volleyball, boxing, and athletics, making it a multi-sport institution.