President Droupadi Murmu formally received the players, coaching staff, and club officials of East Bengal FC at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday, presenting them with the coveted Durand Cup, President’s Cup, and Shimla Trophy to honor their triumphant campaign in the 133rd edition of the historic football tournament.
The ceremonial reception in the Grand Durbar Hall celebrated East Bengal’s hard-fought victory in the championship final held in Kolkata, where the Red and Gold brigade clinched their seventeenth Durand Cup crown. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya and senior military commanders representing the Armed Forces Durand Football Committee attended the presidential felicitations.
Commending the historic Kolkata club on their enduring legacy, President Murmu highlighted that the Durand Cup—Asia’s oldest and the world’s third oldest football tournament—embodies the proud sporting heritage and unifying spirit of the Indian Armed Forces. She urged club athletes to serve as inspiring ambassadors for youth across the country, championing fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Club captain Cleiton Silva and head coach Carles Cuadrat presented the President with a commemorative autographed club jersey and tournament memento. Club officials expressed deep gratitude for the state honors, pledging to carry their winning momentum into upcoming national league fixtures.
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