Chennai Port emerged champions of the All India Major Ports Football Tournament, defeating host V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port 2–1 in a closely contested grand finale held at the Tuticorin Port grounds on February 27, 2026.
The prestigious five-day tournament, conducted from February 23 to 27, 2026, was inaugurated by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal on February 23. The event brought together teams from major ports across the country, showcasing competitive spirit, teamwork and sportsmanship.
In the summit clash, both Chennai Port and VOC Port displayed outstanding performance and determination. Chennai Port secured the championship by netting two goals, while VOC Port scored one, finishing as runners-up.
Mumbai Port Authority and Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (Kolkata Port) jointly secured the third position.
The tournament was hosted by V.O.C. Port Authority under the aegis of the Major Ports Sports Control Board. Teams representing Mumbai Port, Visakhapatnam Port, Mormugao Port, Deendayal Port (Kandla), Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (Kolkata Port), Chennai Port, Cochin Port, Paradip Port and the host V.O.C. Port competed in league matches, drawing enthusiastic participation and support.
Shri Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE, Chairperson of V.O.C. Port Authority, graced the closing ceremony as the Chief Guest and distributed prizes to the winners. In his address, he appreciated the dedication, discipline and sporting spirit displayed by all participating teams. He emphasised that such national-level sporting events strengthen inter-port coordination while promoting physical fitness and team spirit among employees.
The prize distribution ceremony was also attended by Shri P. Kavin Maharaj, IOFS, Chief Vigilance Officer, V.O.C. Port Authority, Shri S.P. Mohan Kumar, Secretary, VOC Port & President, VOC Port Sports Council, along with Heads of Departments, senior officials and sports enthusiasts.
The successful conduct of the tournament stands as a testament to V.O.C. Port’s commitment to promoting sports and fostering unity, excellence and camaraderie among India’s Major Ports.
