Hockey Hosting Rights at Risk: India-Pakistan Tensions Take Toll

Background

• The brief but intense military clash in May 2025 has left relations between India and Pakistan tense.

• Pakistan has decided not to send its national team to the Asia Cup in India, a key qualifier for the 2026 World Cup.

• Pakistan is also likely to skip the Junior World Cup in India, scheduled for November-December 2025.

Key Developments

• The AHF waited until the last moment for confirmation from Pakistan, but after no response, Bangladesh replaced Pakistan in the Asia Cup lineup.

• Oman withdrew due to financial issues, and Kazakhstan stepped in.

• The FIH and AHF are now considering stricter rules, requiring both India and Pakistan to guarantee government clearance for team participation before bidding to host any event.

Pakistan’s Position

• The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has requested the FIH and AHF to ensure Pakistan’s continued participation in global events despite political hurdles.

• The FIH has granted Pakistan an alternative qualification route for the 2026 World Cup:

• Pakistan will face the 6th-placed team from the Asia Cup in a best-of-three playoff series.

• If the opponent cannot host due to financial constraints, Pakistan will qualify automatically.

Warnings & Risks

• Sources cautioned the PHF against an official boycott of the Junior World Cup, warning of penalties from the FIH.

• Pakistan avoided sanctions in the Asia Cup by not formally announcing a boycott, allowing room for compromise.

Official Voices

• PHF President Tariq Hussain Bugti confirmed that there is no possibility of sending the national team to India for the Junior World Cup, highlighting the ongoing impasse.