President Murmu Unveils Durand Cup, Calls for Elevation of Indian Football

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the prestigious Durand Cup, President's Cup, and Shimla Trophy at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. The 133rd edition of the Durand Cup football tournament, the season opener of Indian Football, will kick off on July 27 with the final scheduled for August 31.

The President emphasized the popularity of football worldwide and urged football enthusiasts to work towards elevating the sport's standards in India. The tournament will feature 24 teams, including representatives from the Indian Super League, I-League, invitational teams, and Armed Forces teams. International teams are also expected to participate.

The tournament will be played in a round-robin league-cum-knockout format, with 43 matches scheduled. The 24 teams will be divided into six groups, with the group toppers and two best second-placed sides qualifying for the knockout stage.

Kolkata will host three groups, while Kokrajhar, Shillong, and Jamshedpur will each host one group. The three coveted Durand Trophies will embark on a nationwide tour from New Delhi on July 10 before arriving in Kolkata ahead of the opening game on July 27.

Mohun Bagan Super Giant are the defending champions, having won the tournament a record 17th time last year. The tournament is expected to attract a large number of football fans and provide a platform for young players to showcase their skills.

Tags: #DurandCup, #PresidentCup, #ShimlaTrophy, #IndianFootball, #FootballInIndia