135th IndianOil Durand Cup to Kick Off on July 25; Ranchi Joins as New Host City
By Suman Munshi | IBG NEWS
New Delhi, June 25: India’s football calendar is set for another historic chapter as the 135th edition of the IndianOil Durand Cup will be held from July 25 to August 23, 2026, bringing together 24 teams, including two international sides, in one of Asia’s most prestigious football tournaments.
Widely regarded as Asia’s oldest football tournament and among the world’s oldest surviving football competitions, the Durand Cup continues to serve as a premier platform for Indian football, blending tradition with emerging talent while showcasing top domestic clubs alongside Services teams and foreign participants.
Ranchi Makes Historic Debut
For the first time in the tournament’s 135-edition history, Ranchi will host Durand Cup matches, expanding the competition’s geographical footprint.
The tournament will be staged across five host cities:
- Kolkata
- Ranchi
- Guwahati
- Imphal
- Shillong
Matches will be played at six stadiums, including:
- Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata
- Kishore Bharati Krirangan, Kolkata
- Birsa Munda Stadium, Ranchi
- Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati
- Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal
- Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong
The inclusion of Ranchi reflects the organisers’ continued efforts to promote football across eastern and north-eastern India while expanding the tournament’s national reach.
A Tournament with a Rich Legacy
With a history spanning more than a century, the Durand Cup has played a pivotal role in the evolution of Indian football. Over generations, the competition has served as a launching pad for countless footballers, providing young players with an opportunity to compete against some of the country’s strongest clubs and Services teams.
The tournament has long been recognised for nurturing emerging talent while preserving the traditions of Indian football. Its unique format continues to bring together elite clubs, military teams, state sides and promising young players on a common competitive platform.
Continued Growth Since 2019
Since relocating its primary operations to eastern India in 2019, the IndianOil Durand Cup has witnessed significant expansion.
The competition has grown from a 16-team tournament to a 24-team championship, further strengthening its status as one of India’s premier football competitions.
Organised by the Eastern Command of the Indian Army on behalf of the three Services, the tournament remains unique in world football by featuring both military teams and professional football clubs. In recent editions, international participation has also become a regular feature, adding greater competitive depth to the championship.
Defending Champions
NorthEast United FC will enter the 135th edition as the defending champions after lifting the title in the previous season.
The organisers have announced that details regarding participating clubs, group-stage draws, fixtures and knockout schedules will be released in the coming weeks.
Championship Finale on August 23
The month-long football extravaganza will conclude on August 23, 2026, when the champions will lift the iconic Durand Cup trophy, adding their names to the illustrious history of one of world football’s oldest and most respected tournaments.
With expanded participation, a new host city, and continued emphasis on developing Indian football, the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup promises another exciting chapter in the country’s footballing journey while reaffirming its enduring legacy in Asian football.
