The Durand Cup, Asia's oldest and the world's third-oldest football tournament is set to host foreign clubs after a gap of 27 years in its 132nd edition, which will be held from August 3 to September 3 in Kolkata. The tournament, which is organized by the Indian Armed Forces and conducted by the Durand Football Tournament Society (DFTS) under the aegis of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), will feature 24 teams, including teams from Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
The Durand Cup is one of the most prestigious and oldest football tournaments in India, dating back to 1888. It has been a breeding ground for India's best footballing talent over the years and has witnessed some memorable matches and moments.
The tournament is scheduled to commence in Kolkata from August 3 to September 3. The defending champion of the Durand Cup is Bengaluru FC who defeated Mumbai City FC 2-1 2022 finals. The most successful team in the history of the tournament is Mohun Bagan, who has won it 16 times.
General Manoj Pande, The Chief of the Army Staff, along with Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of Air Staff and Mr Kalyan Chaubey, President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) flagged off the “Trophy Tour” of the 132nd edition of Durand Cup, India’s oldest football tournament at a ceremony organized at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt on 30 June 2023. The trophy will travel across various cities in India before reaching Kolkata for the mega event.
