132nd Durand Cup tournament to be organized in Kolkata

Introduction

The 132nd edition of the Durand Cup, India’s oldest football tournament is scheduled to commence at Kolkata from 03 August to 03 September 2023. The tournament’s Trophy Tour, which was flagged off on June 30, 2023, marks a significant milestone in the history of the Durand Cup. With the participation of foreign teams after a hiatus of 27 years, the upcoming edition is poised to be an extraordinary spectacle for football enthusiasts.

Venue and Duration

The 132nd edition of the Durand Cup will be hosted in the football-crazed city of Kolkata, known for its ardent fan base and rich footballing history. From August 3 to September 3,2023, a total of 24 teams will compete for the prestigious cup across four venues – Guwahati and Kokrajhar in Assam, Shillong in Meghalaya and Kolkata in West Bengal.

Foreign Teams Return

One of the most exciting aspects of the 132nd edition of the Durand Cup is the participation of foreign teams. After a gap of 27 years, teams from Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh are set to compete alongside their Indian counterparts. This inclusion not only adds a diverse flavor to the tournament but also strengthens regional sporting ties and promotes football as a unifying force across borders. The tournament’s decision to open its doors to all club teams showcases its commitment to fostering a global sporting community.

Historical Significance

The Durand Cup holds a prestigious position in the realm of football, both nationally and globally. Established in 1888 at Dagshai, Himachal Pradesh, it is recognized as the world’s third oldest and Asia’s oldest football tournament. The tournament derives its name from Mortimer Durand, the Foreign Secretary in charge of India during its inception. Initially, the tournament was exclusively meant for British soldiers but was eventually extended to include civilians, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event.