Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Durand Cup: A History of Indian Football's Oldest Tournament
The Durand Cup is like the oldest soccer tournament outside the UK, starting in 1888.
It was started by a British diplomat for soldiers to play.
Originally, it was held in Shimla.
Indian teams started joining in later, but British teams were better at first.
Eventually, Indian teams like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal won many times.
The tournament used to be super important, but now it's mostly a chance for teams to get ready for the regular season.
It's still a big deal, especially in Kolkata where it's often held now.
The Durand Cup, the oldest football tournament outside the British Isles, began its 134th edition in Kolkata.
Established in 1888 by Sir Mortimer Durand for British troops, it was initially held in Shimla.
Indian teams entered in 1922, with Mohammedan Sporting breaking the British monopoly in 1940.
Civilian clubs like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal dominated after India's Independence.
The tournament evolved from a prestigious event to a pre-season opportunity for teams.
- Who
- Started by Sir Mortimer Durand; British troops, Indian civilian teams, and various clubs have participated.
- What
- The Durand Cup, a historic football tournament.
- When
- Started in 1888, the 134th edition began recently.
- Where
- Initially in Shimla, then Delhi, now primarily in Kolkata.
- Why
- Originally for recreation of British troops; now serves as a pre-season tournament.
Early Prestige
Modern Function
Importance of the Tournament
Early Prestige
Durand Cup was the most prestigious tournament in Indian football until the late twentieth century.
Modern Function
Durand Cup is effectively a glorified pre-season tournament.
- Established
- 1888
- Founder
- Sir Mortimer Durand
- Original Purpose
- Recreation for British troops
- First Indian Team
- Mohun Bagan (1922)
- First Indian Winner
- Mohammedan Sporting (1940)
- Most Successful Teams
- Mohun Bagan & East Bengal
- Current Status
- Pre-season tournament