Trophy older than World Cup now on display in Glasgow museum

The Durand Cup will be on display for the public to see at The Royal Highland Fusiliers Museum on Sauchiehall St (Image: Provided)

An ancient award that predates both the World Cup and European Championships is currently on display in Glasgow.

The Durand Cup will be on display for the public to see at The Royal Highland Fusiliers Museum located on Sauchiehall Street.

In 1888, diplomat Henry Durand created a program aimed at enhancing the physical health and spirits of soldiers. Originally, the program was only available to British and Indian army units.

Ashlin Baul, the person in charge of the museum at The Royal Highland Fusiliers, stated that the Durand Cup has been around for over 40 years before the World Cup and 70 years before the European Championships. It is a valuable and often overlooked treasure located in the heart of Glasgow.

Many people believe that army museums only showcase uniforms, weapons, and medals. However, the Durand Cup highlights a unique aspect of military life - the competitive, sociable, and personal side.

The prestigious silver and black trophy continues to be a significant sporting competition in India, as clubs vie for the title every year.

Alex McGill, a curator at another museum, explained that the trophy is so significant that FIFA borrowed it to display in their own museum.

This shows just how much football values it.

The Highland Light Infantry was so successful in winning the cup multiple times that the organizers ultimately decided to let them keep it, which is why it is now proudly displayed in our museum.

"People need to visit this place - it's a significant artifact and very unique for a military museum."