The 2024 edition of the Durand Cup is set to unfold under both challenging and promising circumstances. With the participation of Indian Super League (ISL) clubs dropping from 12 to just six due to a standoff between Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), uncertainty clouds India’s football calendar. The unresolved renewal of the Master Rights Agreement has forced the ISL’s 2025–26 season into limbo, disrupting club planning and reducing confirmed entries in Asia’s oldest football tournament.
Despite this turbulence, the Durand Cup organisers are pressing ahead with optimism. Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra, Chairman of the Organising Committee, acknowledged the ongoing issues but expressed hope for a resolution, reiterating strong support from both FSDL and AIFF over the years. In a significant boost to the tournament’s appeal, the total prize pool has been increased from under ₹1.2 crore to ₹3 crore, with individual honours — Best Goalkeeper, Golden Boot, and Golden Ball — now coming with brand-new SUVs. The tournament champions will also receive the prestigious President’s Cup directly from the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The 2024 Durand Cup will see six ISL teams—Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Mohammedan Sporting, Jamshedpur FC, Punjab FC, and defending champions NorthEast United FC—alongside foreign entrants Tribhuwan Army FC (Nepal) and Armed Forces (Malaysia), marking an increase in international participation from last year.
Kolkata continues to be the tournament's main hub, hosting 15 matches including high-stakes fixtures such as the final on August 23. East Bengal and South United FC will open the event on July 23 at Salt Lake Stadium, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee set to inaugurate the tournament. Local fans will also witness newly-promoted I-League side Diamond Harbour FC in action.
For the first time, Manipur joins as a host venue, with matches scheduled at the Khuman Lampak Main Stadium. Addressing concerns about safety due to regional tensions, Lt Gen Malhotra assured robust security arrangements and highlighted the enthusiastic backing from local sporting icons like Thoiba Singh and Mirabai Chanu.
Responding to reports about disputes over complimentary passes, Malhotra clarified that each club is contractually entitled to 5,200 passes, dismissing earlier claims of discontent.
While the off-field challenges remain a concern, this year's Durand Cup promises to be a celebration of resilience and revival, aiming to uphold its legacy with enhanced stakes, broader reach, and continued institutional support.
