The 64th Subroto Cup International Football Tournament, one of India’s premier school-level football competitions, is set to commence on August 19, 2025, with the junior girls’ (U-17) category in Delhi. The tournament will conclude on September 25 with the junior boys’ (U-17) final.
In a historic first, the prestigious event will be hosted across multiple cities, with Bengaluru joining Delhi-NCR as a co-host. Bengaluru will stage the sub-junior boys’ (U-15) matches from September 2 to 11, marking a significant step in the tournament’s expansion and outreach.
Venues and Facilities
In Delhi-NCR, matches will be held at iconic football venues including:
- Ambedkar Stadium
- Tejas Ground
- Subroto Park
- Pinto Park
In Bengaluru, games will be hosted at:
- Air Force School, Jalahalli
- Air Force School, Yelahanka
- HQ Training Command Ground
The Bengaluru leg will also conduct bone age-determination tests to ensure fair competition in the U-15 category.
Wide Participation, International Teams Included
The 2025 edition will witness participation from 106 teams, including school teams from Nepal and Sri Lanka, reinforcing the tournament’s international stature. The Subroto Cup, named after Indian Air Force legend Subroto Mukerjee, has long served as a platform for nurturing young football talent from across India and abroad.
The tournament remains an important pathway for identifying and developing future football stars, with its strong focus on grassroots development.
Pathway to International Training
In a major boost for participants, seven players from this year’s competition will be selected for advanced football training in Germany under the Indian Tigers & Tigresses campaign. This initiative is designed to provide exceptional young players with exposure to world-class training facilities, coaching methods, and competitive match environments in Europe.
Such opportunities have, in past editions, played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of young Indian footballers who have gone on to represent the country at higher levels.
Commitment to Youth Development
Organised by the Subroto Mukerjee Sports Education Society (SMSES) under the aegis of the Indian Air Force, the Subroto Cup continues to blend competition with education, discipline, and teamwork. The inclusion of multiple cities reflects the organisers’ commitment to making the tournament more accessible and engaging for schools and football communities across India.
Speaking about this year’s edition, organisers highlighted the importance of expanding the talent pool and raising the competitive standard through international participation and advanced training opportunities. The multi-city format, they said, is expected to increase visibility and inspire more schools to participate in future editions.
Since its inception in 1960, the Subroto Cup has grown into one of Asia’s most respected school-level football tournaments. The 64th edition, with its broadened scope and global training incentives, is set to further cement its reputation as a breeding ground for the next generation of football stars.
