With Shillong set to host eight matches of the 135th edition of the Durand Cup from July 31 to August 20, the Indian Armed Forces on Saturday unveiled the iconic Durand Cup trophies in Shillong, as the Meghalaya government renewed its pitch to host the tournament final in the coming years. The event underscored the State’s growing stature as one of India’s premier football destinations and reinforced its role as a key host for the country’s oldest football tournament.
The Indian Armed Forces hosted the launch of the 135th Edition of the Durand Cup 2026, Asia’s oldest football tournament, with the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya extending support for the successful conduct of the championship.
Shillong, one of the host cities, will stage six league matches, one quarterfinal and one semifinal at the J.N. Sports Complex, Polo Grounds. As part of the promotional activities leading up to the tournament, a Durand Trophy showcase programme was held at the State Convention Centre, Shillong.
The event featured addresses by Maj. Gen. D.K. Singh, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Bengal Sub Area and Vice Chairman of the Durand Cup Organising Committee, along with a video address by Lt. Gen. Mohit Wadhwa, SM. The programme also included a cultural performance by Khmih Creative Society, the unveiling of the Durand Cup trophies through a video message by the President of India, the trophy showcase and an exchange of mementoes.
Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Wailadmiki Shylla said, “This is the third consecutive year that our state has been entrusted to host Durand Cup. That itself is a strong testimony to Meghalaya to prove it’s ability to organise an event of highest standard. Football is not a game in Meghalaya, it’s a part of our identity. It is played in every village, in every school, in every town and every district. It unites communities, inspires our youth and bring immense pride to our state.”
Seeking to elevate Shillong’s role in the tournament, Shylla said, “This year Meghalaya will proudly host Durand Cup from July 31 to 20th August 2026. With exciting matches including 6 league matches, one quarter finals and one semi final in Shillong. We are looking forward to host the final also in Shillong. So I request if possible this year if not in coming years we look forward to host Durand Cup final in Shillong.”
Reiterating the government’s emphasis on sports as a driver of youth development, he added, “We firmly believe that investment in sports is investment in Youth.”
