Ranchi to Host Durand Cup 2026 for the First Time; Football Extravaganza Begins July 26
Chief Minister Hemant Soren to Inaugurate; Free Tickets for Spectators; Tight Security Arrangements at Birsa Munda Stadium
Ranchi: Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, is set to host the 135th edition of the Durand Cup (2026)—Asia's oldest and the world's third-oldest football tournament—for the first time. This marks a significant milestone in Jharkhand's sporting history. The tournament will kick off on July 26, 2026, at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Morhabadi, with Chief Minister Hemant Soren inaugurating the event.
Sports Director Chhavi Ranjan announced at a press conference that the state government has arranged for completely free tickets for spectators, ensuring that as many people as possible can enjoy this historic tournament. Manoj Kumar Jha, a representative of the Indian Army, was also present at the press conference.
Free Tickets Available from July 22
Free tickets will be distributed at the stadium complex from July 22 to August 16, 2026, between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. A maximum of four tickets will be issued per person. For ticket distribution, 10 counters have been set up between Gate No. 11 and 13, along with two additional counters near Gate No. 23.
The administration has appealed to spectators to arrive at the stadium at least one hour before the match begins to ensure a smooth security check process.
24 Teams, Five Cities, and Thrilling Matches
Launched in 1888, the Durand Cup is Asia's oldest football tournament. In this 135th edition, 24 teams will vie for the title across five host cities. The competition will feature clubs from the Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League, alongside teams from the Indian Armed Forces and foreign military contingents.
Tight Security in the Stadium
The administration has issued strict guidelines to ensure the safety of spectators. Items such as weapons, firecrackers, large bags, outside food, alcohol, tobacco products, drones, professional cameras, laptops, large power banks, helmets, megaphones, air horns, large flags, laser pointers, and aerosol sprays will be prohibited inside the stadium.
This event will not only give a new identity to the football culture in Jharkhand but will also prove to be a major step towards securing a strong position for Ranchi on the national and international sports map.
