The 135th Edition of the Durand Cup 2026 is set to return to Imphal, with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 presiding over the Trophy Showcase Ceremony at the City Convention Centre in Imphal — marking a significant moment for a state long regarded as one of India's foremost football nurseries.

Trophy Showcase and Tour Launch

The ceremony featured the display of three historic trophies: the President's Cup (1956), the Durand Cup (1888), and the Simla Trophy (1903). The trophies had been ceremonially flagged off by President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre earlier this month. The promotional trophy tour in Manipur commenced with a flagging-off from Sendra in Bishnupur District earlier in the day.

What the Governor Said

Addressing the gathering, Governor Bhalla described the Durand Cup as more than a football tournament — calling it a celebration of history, resilience, and the unifying power of sports. He said Manipur has long been recognised as one of India's leading football nurseries, with its players consistently earning laurels for the state and the country. He expressed confidence that the tournament would give young footballers a platform to compete at the highest level while reinforcing discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.

Bhalla also acknowledged the role of the Indian Armed Forces in bringing the prestigious tournament back to Manipur, describing it as a meaningful step towards promoting peace, normalcy, and nation-building through sports. He added that the return of the Durand Cup to Imphal would strengthen unity and contribute to the state's socio-economic development.

Chief Minister on Football and State Identity

Chief Minister Khemchand Singh said football is deeply embedded in Manipur's culture and has produced several outstanding footballers whose achievements continue to inspire younger generations. He expressed gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for organising the 135th Durand Cup and reaffirmed the state government's full support for its successful conduct. Hosting the matches at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium, he said, would boost sports infrastructure, stimulate the local economy, and provide local footballers a national stage.

Governor's Taekwondo Cup Closing Ceremony

Later on Wednesday, Governor Bhalla also graced the closing ceremony of the 19th Governor's Taekwondo Cup, Manipur 2026, at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal. Organised by the All-Manipur Taekwondo Association, the event was instituted in 2005 under the patronage of then-Governor S S Sidhu. Speaker of the Manipur Legislative Assembly Thokchom Satyabrata Singh and MLA Kongkham Robindro Singh were also present. The Governor, along with the Speaker and the MLA, distributed prizes to winners and participants following the final bouts.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Bhalla said the Governor's Taekwondo Cup has become an important platform for nurturing young talent and promoting the values of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

Tournament Details and Key Officials

Established in 1888, the Durand Cup is Asia's oldest football tournament. Organised by the Indian Armed Forces in collaboration with the Government of Manipur, Imphal will host the Group D matches at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium from 28 July to 12 August 2026. Senior officials in attendance included Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, Director General of Police Mukesh Singh, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, Chief of Staff Eastern Command Lt Gen Gambhir Singh, GOC Red Shield Division Maj Gen Shubhankar Basu, and Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South) Maj Gen Gaurav Sharma. With Group D fixtures scheduled over two weeks, all eyes will be on whether Imphal's football-passionate crowds can make the 135th edition a landmark homecoming for the sport.