New Delhi, August 28: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday felicitated NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) for their title victory in the recently-concluded Durand Cup, Asia’s oldest football tournament.
At the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Murmu presented the President’s Cup—one of the three iconic trophies awarded to the champions—to NEUFC representatives, including owner John Abraham, captain Redeem Tlang, and CEO Mandar Tamhane. Instituted in 1956 by India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the President’s Cup has long symbolised excellence and honour, reflecting the tournament’s deep heritage and national significance.
The felicitation ceremony celebrated NEUFC’s historic achievement while also acknowledging the Indian armed forces’ enduring role in nurturing football and promoting national unity. Speaking on behalf of the club, John Abraham thanked President Murmu for the recognition and lauded the Eastern Command for elevating the Durand Cup and fostering football talent in the eastern and northeastern regions of India.
The event concluded with a commemorative group photograph featuring President Murmu, the victorious NEUFC team, and members of the Durand Cup organising committee, marking a proud moment in Indian football history.
