It is organized by the International Military Sports Council (CISM).

The tournament has been held since 1946 and was originally called the World Military Championship until the name changed for the 2001 edition.

When the multi-sport Military World Games were established in 1995, the football championship was incorporated into it; however, it continues to be held independently every two years.

The first championship took place in Prague, Czechoslovakia in 1946, under the responsibility of the Armed Forces Sports Council, which in 1948 became the International Military Sports Council (CISM).

Great Britain won the first title, and Czechoslovakia was the runner-up.