The oldest club football tournament in Asia was born from British military recovery.

Countries & Cities · Published 16 October 2026 · Updated 21 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 1888, a high-ranking British official seeking health during an illness conceived a sporting prize that would become a century-long tradition. Today, the Durand Cup remains India's premier curtain-raiser, blending elite civilian clubs with active military regiments in a unique three-trophy spectacle.

The competition originated as a contest involving multiple regiments and departments of India's Armed Forces, established by Henry Mortimer Durand (the British Raj foreign secretary from 1884–1894). Initially held in Dagshai near Shimla, it was first won by the Royal Scots Fusiliers, who defeated the Highland Light Infantry 2–1. While native soldiers traditionally favored field hockey—a preference that shaped India's international dominance in that sport—the Nepali Gurkha brigades were notable early exceptions for football.

The tournament underwent significant shifts following World War II and Indian independence. In 1940, the venue moved to New Delhi, and civilian teams were introduced to maintain competition levels as military units were deployed. A pivotal moment occurred in 1947 when the trophy was 'accidentally discovered' in a commander's office; it was saved from being moved to Pakistan by Defence Secretary H.M. Patel, who secured its place in Indian football history.

Currently, three Service Chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff oversee the event, which is organised by the Durand Football Tournament Society. It maintains its military roots by inviting various regiments as guest teams. A unique distinction of the competition is that winners receive three separate trophies: The Masterpiece (the original rolling trophy since 1965), The Artistry (donated in 1904), and The Pride (replacing the Viceroy's Trophy post-independence).

Recent years have seen a push for modernization. In 2022, it became mandatory for all Indian Super League clubs to participate to meet AFC competition requirements. This shift ensured that full-strength squads returned to the pitch, revitalizing the tournament's legacy as both a historical military tradition and a modern professional requirement.

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