President Droupadi Murmu Flags Off Durand Cup 2025 Trophies, Lauds Football’s Role in National Unity.
New Delhi:
In a ceremonial event steeped in tradition and sporting pride, President of India Droupadi Murmu unveiled and flagged off the trophies of the Durand Cup Tournament 2025 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre today. The ceremony marked the official commencement of Asia’s oldest football tournament, symbolizing both sporting excellence and the nation’s enduring passion for football.
Addressing the gathering, the President highlighted the transformative power of sports in society. “Sports promote discipline, determination, and team spirit. They have a unique ability to bring people, regions, and countries together,” she said. Underscoring the emotional connection citizens share with sports, she added, “All Indians feel a collective pride when the tricolour flies at the Olympics or any global sporting stage.”
The President noted that football holds a special place in India’s sporting culture. “Football is more than a game — it is a passion for millions. It exemplifies teamwork, strategy, and endurance. Tournaments like the Durand Cup not only celebrate the game but also create a nurturing ground for future footballers,” she remarked.
President Murmu also commended the Armed Forces for their continued dedication in preserving and promoting the legacy of the Durand Cup. Organized under the aegis of the Indian Armed Forces, the tournament has been instrumental in blending sportsmanship with service, instilling values of unity, camaraderie, and healthy competition.
The Durand Cup, first held in 1888, is a key fixture in India’s football calendar and provides an important platform for emerging players and clubs across the country. With the 2025 edition set to feature teams from top-tier leagues and armed forces units, expectations are high for a spirited display of footballing talent.
The unveiling and ceremonial flag-off of the trophies signal the beginning of the tournament’s journey across participating cities, building excitement among fans and players alike. The event also reflects the government’s growing emphasis on promoting sports as a vital component of youth development and national integration.
With preparations now underway, the Durand Cup 2025 is poised to deliver another chapter in India’s rich footballing tradition.