Bollywood Star Tiger Shroff Likely to Play in Durand Cup 2026, Named in Mumbay FC Squad
Bollywood action star Tiger Shroff, 36, is confirmed to make his professional football debut in the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup 2026. Registered with Mumbay FC, the actor is expected to feature in their group stage campaign in Shillong, with a potential debut on August 11, 2026, against Nongkseh Sports & Cultural Club.
Bollywood sensation Tiger Shroff is gearing up for a significant career pivot, as reports confirm his inclusion in Mumbay FC's squad for the prestigious 135th IndianOil Durand Cup 2026. The 36-year-old actor, known for his martial arts prowess and high-octane action films, is expected to make his competitive debut in India's oldest football tournament, marking an exciting crossover from the silver screen to the professional football pitch.
From Silver Screen to Green Pitch
Shroff's journey into professional football isn't entirely new. He co-launched Mumbay FC in July 2024 and has been an official brand ambassador since its inception. He previously made his professional debut for the club in the Mumbai Premier League in October 2024. Sources close to the club indicate that Shroff has been consistently training with the team, showcasing his long-standing passion for the sport. Mumbay FC's Technical Director, Zoheb Khan, confirmed Shroff's registration and the club's efforts to manage the logistics and significant security requirements for his potential appearance, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities where matches will be held. Fact Check: Will Tiger Shroff Play in Durand Cup 2026 As Professional Footballer?
“He's registered with the squad, and we are trying our best to arrange everything,” Khan stated. “A person like Tiger, we'll need a lot of security in tier-2, tier-3 cities. People can gather around, and it could be chaotic.”
Mumbay FC's Durand Cup Campaign
Mumbay FC, a club with a rapid ascent in the Indian domestic circuit, earned their maiden Durand Cup qualification after winning the inaugural Maharashtra State Club League Championship and securing a third-place finish in I-League 3 last season. They are placed in Group E for the 2026 edition, alongside Shillong Lajong FC, Langsning FC, and Nongkseh Sports & Cultural Club (Nongkseh SS&CC). All of Mumbay FC’s group stage fixtures are slated to take place in Shillong.
While the exact timing of his debut is yet to be confirmed, reports suggest Tiger Shroff is most likely to feature in Mumbay FC’s final group-stage encounter against Nongkseh Sports & Cultural Club on August 11, 2026.
Mumbay FC's Group E Fixtures
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Competition Stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 3, 2026 | Langsning FC | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong | Group Stage (E) |
| August 8, 2026 | Shillong Lajong FC | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong | Group Stage (E) |
| August 11, 2026 | Nongkseh Sports & Cultural Club | Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong | Group Stage (E) |
Tiger Shroff's potential debut is set to draw immense attention to the Durand Cup, highlighting the growing intersection of entertainment and sports in India and offering a unique spectacle for football enthusiasts nationwide. The 135th edition of the tournament runs from July 25 to August 23, 2026, across various cities, promising an exciting season of Indian football.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 28, 2026 03:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
