Calcutta FC is India’s oldest football club and one of the earliest influencers of the sport in the country.
Football’s rich history goes back before famous teams like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. This helped make football a strong part of India’s culture, and today, still commands passionate crowds in packed stadiums.
Let’s explore how this historic club shaped Indian football—from its colonial origins to its role in the modern game.
The 10 Oldest Football Clubs In India (Founding Years and Achievements)
The history of football in India began in the 19th century, and several old historic clubs were established that started a journey for this sport in India.
Here are the ten oldest football clubs in India, all of which have contributed significantly to Indian football history.
| Rank | Club Name | Founded Year | City/State | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Calcutta FC | 1872 | Kolkata (Calcutta), WB | First club in India & Asia |
| 2 | Dalhousie Club | 1878 | Kolkata | Among the earliest football clubs in India |
| 3 | Traders Club | 1880s | Kolkata | Early club in colonial competitions |
| 4 | Naval Volunteers Club | 1880s | Kolkata | Key role in popularising football locally |
| 5 | Mohun Bagan AC | 1889 | Kolkata | Oldest club still operating; IFA Shield 1911 |
| 6 | Sovabazar Club | 1887 or 1892 | Kolkata | Won the Trades Cup in 1892; an early indigenous team |
| 7 | Aryan Club | 1884/1890 | Kolkata | Longstanding Kolkata-based club |
| 8 | Mohammedan SC | 1891 | Kolkata | Major legacy club, huge fanbase |
| 9 | R B Ferguson Club | 1899 | Thrissur, Kerala | The oldest club in South India |
| 10 | East Bengal Club | 1920 | Kolkata | One of the Big Three, a major national success |
Note: Dates and details may vary slightly due to incomplete colonial-era records and club archives.
Calcutta FC, founded in 1872, stands as the oldest football club in India and Asia, preceding other legends like Mohun Bagan (1889).
These clubs, born in colonial Calcutta and beyond, set the stage for Indian football’s enduring legacy.
Calcutta FC – The Oldest Football Club Established
Calcutta FC was the first club in 1872, heralding organised football in India. Established during the British colonial period, Calcutta FC was founded in the then capital of British India, Calcutta, which was the hub of all sporting activities.
Forming Calcutta FC was not just the formation of a sports club; it was the first football culture on the Indian subcontinent.
It is thought that it started life as a rugby club before turning to follow rugby’s world agenda in 1894, again highlighting sports evolution during a colonial time.
Formed in 1872, Calcutta Football Club mainly introduced rugby to the country, but its change to football has been historically significant.
Calcutta FC has no formal existence as of 2025, but the legacy they left inspired a plethora of clubs that have had various levels of achievement.
Oldest Football Club In India Still Active – Mohun Bagan
Mohun Bagan was inaugurated on 15 August 1889, and Bhupendra Nath Bose became the first president of the newly formed club.
The club is not the oldest football club in India, but it is the oldest football club in India that still plays and exists today.
When it was created in 1889, the club became one of the oldest football clubs in Asia.
Mohun Bagan had a humble start, playing their first match that year against Eden Hindu Hostel students and losing 1–0, but over time, it grew into one of the most competitive clubs in Indian football.
In 1911, Mohun Bagan made history as it became the first Indian team to win the IFA Shield, beating the East Yorkshire Regiment, which was more than a sports victory; it was a victory for Indian pride and against colonial influence.
Today, Mohun Bagan continues to thrive as one of India’s premier clubs. The club plays its home matches mostly at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan and sometimes at the Mohun Bagan Ground.
Mohun Bagan’s history shows its strength and passion in Indian football. Its ongoing success proves the sport’s spirit in India.
List of 10 Oldest Football Clubs in India (Active & Inactive)
These clubs laid the groundwork for football in India, shaping the game’s early history and sparking a passion that still thrives today.
1. Calcutta FC
- Founded: 1872
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: Late 19th to early 20th century
India’s first football club, pioneering organised football in the subcontinent and establishing Kolkata as the nation’s football hub.
2. Dalhousie Club
- Founded: 1878
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: Late 19th to early 20th century
Among the earliest football clubs in colonial India, contributing to the sport’s initial development during British rule.
3. Traders Club
- Founded: 1880s
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: 1880s to early 20th century
An early participant in colonial football competitions, helping establish a competitive football structure in the Bengal presidency.
4. Naval Volunteers Club
- Founded: 1880s
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: 1880s to early 20th century
Military-affiliated club that played a vital role in popularizing football among local communities in colonial Calcutta.
5. Mohun Bagan AC (Still Active)
- Founded: 1889
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: 1889–present
India’s oldest continuously operating football club, famous for the historic 1911 IFA Shield victory against British opponents.
6. Sovabazar Club
- Founded: 1887 or 1892
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: 1890s–early 20th century
An early indigenous football club that won the Trades Cup in 1892, representing local Indian talent in colonial competitions.
7. Aryan Club
- Founded: 1884/1890
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: 1890s–present
It is a longstanding Kolkata-based club that has maintained its presence in local football circles for over a century.
8. Mohammedan Sporting Club
- Founded: 1891
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: 1891–present
Historic club with a massive fanbase, representing the Muslim community in Indian football with significant legacy achievements.
9. R B Ferguson Club
- Founded: 1899
- City: Thrissur, Kerala
- Years Active: 1899–present
The oldest football club in South India, extending the sport’s reach beyond Bengal and establishing football culture in Kerala.
10. East Bengal Club
- Founded: 1920
- City: Calcutta (now Kolkata)
- Years Active: 1920–present
One of the “Big Three” Kolkata clubs, it has achieved major national success and maintains fierce rivalry with Mohun Bagan.
Current Popular Football Clubs in India (2025)
These are the most popular and successful football clubs in India as of 2025. Every club has its legacy and recent successes that have influenced Indian football.
This ranking shows historic giants and new contenders. It highlights their recent major titles and current standings in the sport.
| Rank | Club | Recent Major Titles | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mohun Bagan SG | 7 League, 2 ISL Cup, 16 Durand, 14 Federation | Most successful, current champions |
| 2 | Mumbai City FC | 2 ISL, 2 League Shield | Top league and cup competitor |
| 3 | East Bengal FC | 3 League, multiple Cups | Consistent contender, major Kolkata rival |
| 4 | Bengaluru FC | 3 League | Recent national successes, strong club pedigree |
| 5 | Dempo SC | 5 League (I-League/NFL) | Most successful Goan club, less recent success |
Mohun Bagan Super Giant is currently the most successful football club in India, with a record number of top-tier league titles, cup victories, and recent back-to-back ISL successes.
Their performance, fan support, and history make them the benchmark in Indian club football today.
History Of Football In India
Football first made its way to India during British colonial rule in the mid-1800s. Football was initially played in India primarily by British soldiers and civilians.
However, Indian communities, particularly in Bengal, soon discovered the sport, and football quickly became popular.
The game helped set up football clubs and leagues. This built a strong and lasting football culture in India.
What Are The Secrets Behind The Longevity And Legacy Of India’s Oldest Clubs
The survival of clubs like Mohun Bagan stems from their deep cultural roots, community engagement, and ability to foster local talent.
Historic victories, like Mohun Bagan’s 1911 IFA Shield win, turned these clubs into icons, ensuring fervent support across generations.
Their traditions, legendary matches, and persevering spirit continue to shape the story of Indian football today.
Conclusion: The Oldest Football Club in India is Calcutta FC
Calcutta FC is India’s oldest football club, founded in 1872. This was many years before Mohun Bagan and East Bengal were established.
The club may no longer be active, but it was the first to introduce organized football to India. It laid the foundation for the intense rivalries, packed stadiums, and passionate fans we see today. Calcutta FC is where Indian football began.
Its legacy has influenced early matches and inspired countless players and clubs, promising a brighter future for football in India.
FAQs
Calcutta FC, established in 1872, is India’s oldest football club.
Mohun Bagan, founded in 1889, is India’s oldest operational club, but not the first club overall.
Calcutta FC pioneered club football in India and inspired the foundation of several leading clubs.
In Calcutta (now Kolkata), West Bengal.
Mohun Bagan’s famous 1911 IFA Shield win over the East Yorkshire Regiment—a landmark for Indian football pride.
Several renowned football clubs in India are known for their extraordinary match performances. Some well-known teams are Bengaluru FC, Kerala Blasters, FC Goa, and ATK Mohun Bagan.
