Trophy tour and road show for 134th Durand Cup flagged off in Manipur

The Imphal chapter of the 134th Durand Cup 2025 began with a grand flag-off ceremony of the Trophy Tour and Road Show from the iconic Sendra, Loktak Lake in Manipur. 

Indian weightlifting icon and Padma Shri awardee Saikhom Mirabai Chanu flagged off the event, marking a significant start to one of Asia's oldest and most prestigious football tournaments.

The program is organised by the Indian Army, supported by the Manipur government.

The trophy tour will traverse through key locations across Imphal City and culminate at the City Convention Centre, where a formal Trophy Showcasing Ceremony will be held in the esteemed presence of Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh.

The flag-off event was also graced by senior army officials, members of the Bishnupur District Administration, and dignitaries from the Manipur government.

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Speaking at the event, Mirabai Chanu expressed heartfelt gratitude for selecting Manipur as one of the host cities for the Durand Cup, especially at a time when the state is grappling with challenging circumstances. “This is a proud moment for us. Hosting such a historic tournament in Manipur is a big opportunity for football lovers and will inspire the youth,” she said.

Chanu lauded the contributions of Manipuri footballers to Indian football, saying, “Our players have always brought fame to India.” She urged young athletes to pursue sports with consistency, hard work, sacrifice, and discipline — values she credited for her own success.

The 134th Durand Cup 2025 is being hosted across five Indian cities: Kolkata, Shillong, Jamshedpur, Kokrajhar, and Imphal.

Imphal will host Group F matches featuring TRAU FC, NEROCA FC, INDIAN NAVY FT, and REAL KASHMIR FC at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium. A total of six matches will be played on July 30, August 1, 4, 7, 10, and 12, all kicking off at 4:00 PM.

Football fans in the region are eagerly anticipating the high-octane matches, which promise to deliver thrilling moments and showcase some of the finest football talents in the country.