President congratulates NEUFC on Durand Cup win

President Droupadi Murmu felicitated NorthEast United FC at Rashtrapati Bhavan for winning the 2025 Durand Cup, presenting the President’s Cup and lauding the club’s achievement and the Armed Forces’ contribution to football

Hyderabad: In a special ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan today, the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, felicitated NorthEast United Football Club (NEUFC) for their historic victory in the 2025 edition of the IndianOil Durand Cup.

The President presented the President’s Cup — one of the three iconic trophies awarded to the champions — marking a moment of pride for the club, its supporters and the footballing community.

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Instituted in 1956 by Dr Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, the President’s Cup has stood as a symbol of excellence and honour, reinforcing the tournament’s deep ties with the nation’s heritage. The ceremony not only celebrated NEUFC’s achievement but also highlighted the enduring legacy of the Indian Armed Forces in nurturing football and strengthening national unity.

The President handed over the trophy to John Abraham (owner, NEUFC), Redeem Tlang (captain, NEUFC) and Mandar Vijaykumar Tamhane (CEO, NEUFC) in the presence of dignitaries and members of the Durand Football Tournament Society and the Durand Cup Organising Committee.

Speaking on behalf of the club, John Abraham expressed heartfelt gratitude to the President for the recognition and lauded the Indian Armed Forces for their pivotal role in preserving the Durand Cup’s glorious legacy. He particularly commended the Eastern Command for elevating the tournament to new heights and for their efforts in nurturing football talent across the East and North-East, contributing significantly to the broader growth of Indian football.

The ceremony concluded with a commemorative group photograph of the President with the victorious team and the organising committees, symbolising the unity of sport.