The Durand Football Tournament is one of the oldest and most prestigious football tournaments in the world. It holds the distinction of being the third oldest football tournament globally and the oldest in Asia and India. The tournament has a rich history that dates back to 1888, and it has been a key part of India’s footballing tradition.
The Durand Football Tournament was founded by Sir Henry Mortimer Durand, a British diplomat and civil servant, in 1888. Originally, it was organized to entertain the British troops stationed in India.
The first edition of the tournament was held in Simla (now Shimla, Himachal Pradesh), which was a popular hill station at the time.
Over the years, the tournament grew in stature and importance, becoming a major event in the Indian football calendar and eventually attracting teams from across the country.
The Durand Cup has the honor of being the oldest football tournament in Asia and India, making it an integral part of the footballing heritage of the region.
The tournament has played a crucial role in the development of Indian football, and many prominent players and clubs have participated in it over the years, solidifying its place in the country’s footballing legacy.
In 1940, the tournament was moved from Simla to New Delhi, where it continues to be held. The move to the capital of India allowed the tournament to gain more national attention and facilitated the participation of more clubs from different parts of the country.
The tournament has seen various changes over the years, but it has remained an important fixture in the football scene of India.
The 129th edition of the tournament took place in 2019, held from 2 to 24 August.
In this edition, Gokulam Kerala emerged as the champions, defeating other top teams and marking a significant milestone in the tournament’s history.
The tournament continues to be a showcase for Indian football, offering opportunities for emerging talent to compete at a high level and gain exposure.
The Durand Cup has been a platform for the country’s leading football clubs to compete for one of the most prestigious trophies in Indian football.
Over the years, clubs like Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Mohammedan Sporting, and Gokulam Kerala have made their mark in the tournament.
The tournament is still regarded as a key event in the Indian football calendar, attracting attention from fans and media across the country.
The Durand Football Tournament stands as a testament to India’s long-standing football history. Founded in 1888, it is not only one of the oldest football competitions in the world but also a symbol of the growth and evolution of football in India and Asia. Over its long history, the tournament has provided a platform for Indian footballers to showcase their talent and has contributed significantly to the sport’s development in the country. With its rich legacy and continued success, the Durand Cup remains a cornerstone of Indian football culture.
