IFA Shield (India) 2026/27

The IFA Shield is a domestic cup competition in India organized by the Indian Football Association (IFA), which is headquartered in Kolkata. Founded in 1893, the tournament is one of the oldest football competitions in the world. Its early financial support came from the royal houses of Patiala and Cooch Behar, alongside club representatives. Unlike national competitions run by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the Shield is distinct in its state-level organization and lack of promotion or relegation. Participation is invitational, typically including clubs from the Indian Super League and the I-League, as well as lower-tier sides and occasionally international teams.

The format has varied significantly over time. Historically, the tournament included periods as an Under-19 youth competition between 2015 and 2018, and it was suspended in several years, including 1988, 1992, and 2007. The current edition, the 125th, held in 2025, featured six teams divided into two groups of three. The top team from each group advanced directly to the final. East Bengal holds the record for the most titles with 29, followed by Mohun Bagan with 21. Mohun Bagan is also the reigning champion, having won the 2025 edition.

The Shield retains significant historical prestige, particularly for the Kolkata derby. It was the stage for Mohun Bagan’s historic 1911 victory, the first by an all-Indian side against a British team. While the AIFF Super Cup remains the premier national knockout competition organized by the AIFF, the Shield continues to serve as a key fixture in Indian football history.