In a stirring ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre (RBCC), the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, today flagged off the three iconic Durand Cup trophies, officially inaugurating the 134th edition of the IndianOil Durand Cup — Asia’s oldest and India’s most prestigious football tournament.
The flag-off marks a symbolic yet significant start to the month-long tournament, which will be hosted from July 23 to August 23, 2025, across five states: West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur.
A Legacy of Sport and Service
This is the second consecutive year the President has performed this ceremonial gesture, reaffirming the Durand Cup’s enduring legacy as more than just a sporting event — it is a confluence of sport, military service, and national pride. The tradition of the President, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, flagging off the trophies underscores the Cup’s historic ties to India’s defence services.
“The Durand Cup is not merely a tournament — it is a reflection of India’s sporting ethos and national unity. Its continuity across centuries is a tribute to its enduring values,” said a senior official from the Ministry of Defence, which co-organises the tournament along with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Indian Army.
Tournament Details
| Edition | 134th Durand Cup |
|---|---|
| Dates | July 23 – August 23, 2025 |
| Trophy Flag-Off | July 7, 2025 by Hon’ble President Droupadi Murmu |
| Host States | West Bengal, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur |
| Organisers | Ministry of Defence, AIFF, Indian Army |
| Sponsor | IndianOil Corporation Limited |
| Founded In | 1888 |
Significance of the Trophies
The Durand Cup features three prestigious trophies:
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Durand Cup – The original tournament trophy.
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President’s Cup – First presented by Dr. Rajendra Prasad in 1956.
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Shimla Trophy – Presented by the residents of Shimla in 1904.
These trophies, deeply embedded in India’s footballing history, are carried across the host cities before the tournament, enhancing public engagement and evoking a sense of tradition and pride.
Manipur Among Host States
For the first time in several years, Manipur — known as the footballing powerhouse of India — is one of the hosts, alongside other states in the Northeast and Eastern India. This inclusion is expected to draw massive crowds and further strengthen grassroots football enthusiasm.
A Glorious History
Founded in 1888, the Durand Cup is not only the oldest football tournament in Asia but also the third oldest in the world. Originally started as a regimental tournament for the British Indian Army, it evolved over time into a premier national championship involving clubs, services teams, and now, even international squads.
Conclusion
The 134th edition of the Durand Cup promises to be a vibrant celebration of India’s football spirit, bringing together heritage, youth, and unity through sport. As the three trophies begin their journey from the heart of the nation, the countdown to one of India’s grandest football spectacles officially begins.