NorthEast United FC is the defending champion, after having defeated Diamond Harbour 6-1 in the final of the 2025 edition. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The Durand Cup 2026 will be held between July 25 and August 23 bringing together 24 teams, including two foreign sides, across five host cities, the organising committee announced on Thursday.

The tournament will be hosted by Kolkata, Ranchi, Guwahati, Imphal and Shillong, with Ranchi making its debut as a host city in the competition’s history.

Matches will be played across six venues, with Kolkata hosting fixtures at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan and Kishore Bharati Krirangan, while Birsa Munda Stadium in Ranchi, Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, Khuman Lampak Stadium in Imphal and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong will serve as the other host venues.

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With 24 teams, including two foreign sides, the tournament will once again bring together a diverse mix of leading Indian clubs, Services teams and international talent. Details regarding the participating teams, groupings, fixtures and knockout schedule will be announced in due course, the release said.

NorthEast United FC is the defending champion, after having defeated Diamond Harbour 6-1 in the final of the 2025 edition.

Published on Jun 25, 2026