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Durand Cup 2025 Returns With Prize Money Boost, New Venues — But Amid ISL Uncertainty
The Durand Cup Organising Committee: Asia’s oldest football tournament, the Durand Cup, is all set to kick off on July 23 with a significant increase in prize money, fresh venues, and expanded international presence. But while the tournament is poised for another vibrant edition, its build-up has been clouded by the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Indian club football — particularly the Indian Super League (ISL).
The Durand Cup Organising Committee on Thursday confirmed that only six ISL clubs — Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Mohammedan Sporting, Jamshedpur FC, Punjab FC, and defending champions NorthEast United FC — will take part this year, down sharply from 12 last season.
This contraction comes amid a standoff between Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) and the All India Football Federation (AIFF) over the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement — a deadlock that has left the ISL’s 2025–26 season “on hold.” The resulting uncertainty has made clubs hesitant about planning their rosters, training schedules, and off-season tournament commitments, including the Durand Cup.
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