The Trophy Tour for the 135th Durand Cup reached Kolkata on Wednesday, completing its journey across all five host states ahead of the tournament's opening match on July 25. The arrival of the competition's three iconic trophies marked the final stop of the nationwide tour, setting the stage for the start of Asia's oldest football tournament.
A ceremonial event and press conference were held at AOI Vijay Durg, where the Durand Cup, President's Cup and Simla Trophy were showcased before dignitaries, football officials and members of the media.
The event was attended by Dr. Indranil Khan, Hon'ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Department of Youth Services and Sports and Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of West Bengal, who served
as the Chief Guest. Also present were Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh, UYSM, AVSM, YSM, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Eastern Command and Chairman of the Durand Cup Organising Committee; Shri Rajesh Pandey, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Youth Services & Sports and Department of Cooperation, Government of West Bengal; Major General Dinesh Kumar Singh, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Bengal Sub Area and Vice Chairman of the Durand Cup Organising Committee, along with senior civil and military officials, representatives from participating clubs, sponsors and members of the football fraternity.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Indranil Khan highlighted Kolkata's significant role in this year's tournament.
"Kolkata is privileged to host 16 matches during this edition of the Durand Cup, including the opening match and the Final, and that is a matter of great pride for every football lover in our state. During the recent FIFA Club World Cup, we all supported clubs from around the world. Now it is time to unite behind Indian football and our own footballers. I appeal to every football enthusiast across West Bengal to fill the stadiums from the opening match to the Final, because there is no greater encouragement for our players than the unwavering support of passionate fans. "
The programme featured an introduction of the dignitaries, followed by audio-visual presentations celebrating the rich legacy of the Durand Cup. Attendees also watched footage of the ceremonial unveiling of the tournament's trophies at Rashtrapati Bhavan and a special video message from actor John Abraham.
Dr. Indranil Khan and Shri Rajesh Pandey were felicitated before Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh delivered the welcome address.
Reflecting on the Indian Army's association with the tournament, Lieutenant General Gambhir Singh said:
"For the Indian Army, the Durand Cup remains one of our most cherished sporting commitments and a shining example of military-civil partnership at its very best. Since 2019, Kolkata has proudly served as the tournament's principal host city, where football is not merely a sport but a way of life. This partnership continues to strengthen the legacy of India's oldest football tournament. "
The ceremony concluded with an interaction between the organisers and the media, followed by the formal display of the three trophies and a group photograph.
With the Trophy Tour now complete, attention shifts to the tournament itself. Over the past fortnight, the Durand Cup trophies travelled across all five host states, engaging with football fans and local communities while building anticipation for the competition.
Shri Rajesh Pandey also praised the tournament's rich heritage and Kolkata's continued role as its principal venue.
"The legacy of the Durand Cup is truly remarkable, and very few sporting events in India can claim such a distinguished heritage. We are delighted that the tournament returns to Kolkata with the iconic Kolkata Derby opening the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup, and I am certain football lovers across the state are eagerly looking forward to it. The Government of West Bengal is proud to support the Indian Army in ensuring another successful edition of this historic tournament. "
Since the tournament's revival in 2019, Kolkata has served as its home base and will once again host the opening fixture, Group A and Group B matches, a quarter-final, a semi-final and the final.
Major General Dinesh Kumar Singh underlined the competition's long-term vision and expansion.
"The extension of the Durand Cup under the aegis of the Eastern Command until 2032 is a matter of great pride for all of us. It reflects the tremendous support the tournament has received and the remarkable growth it has witnessed over the years. With the wholehearted support of the Government of West Bengal and our other host states, we remain committed to taking the tournament to new venues, creating opportunities for more young footballers and further strengthening Indian football. "
The 135th Durand Cup will begin on July 25 with the much-anticipated Kolkata Derby between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
Group A features Mohun Bagan Super Giant, East Bengal FC, South United FC and CISF Protectors, while Group B consists of Mohammedan SC, Indian Army Football Team, Durand Cup debutants Baghpat FC and Samaleswari Sporting. Kolkata will also stage one quarter-final, one semi-final and the final on August 23.
Organised by the Eastern Command of the Indian Army on behalf of the three Services, with support from the respective host state governments, the Durand Cup remains the world's third-oldest surviving football competition. The 135th edition will be played from July 25 to August 23 across Kolkata, Ranchi, Guwahati, Shillong and Imphal, featuring 24 teams-including a Sri Lankan Armed Forces side-competing in 43 matches across six venues.
