Pakistan hockey seeks neutral venue in India row

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has formally asked the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) to either move the 2026 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy out of India or hold all of Pakistan’s matches at a neutral venue.

The request comes amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India. The PHF said the proposed arrangement was necessary to provide a safe and suitable environment for Pakistani players and officials.

PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani, who also serves as federal secretary of the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, confirmed that the federation had approached the AHF with the request.

In a statement, Wani said the federation wanted the tournament relocated or Pakistan’s fixtures moved to a neutral venue to ensure a “safe, dignified and conducive environment” for the national team and officials.

The PHF has not sought to withdraw Pakistan from the tournament. Instead, it has reaffirmed its commitment to competing in the championship and facing all participating teams, including India, if the matches are held at a neutral location.

“We remain fully committed to participating in the Asian Champions Trophy and international hockey,” Wani said, adding that Pakistan was ready to play against all International Hockey Federation (FIH) member nations.

The federation also expressed hope that the AHF would consider its proposal and make arrangements that would allow Pakistan to participate fully in the event.

The development follows comments by Indian Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, who recently said Pakistan would take part in the tournament. The PHF subsequently clarified that Pakistan’s participation in India was subject to the necessary government approval.

According to reports, the tournament is scheduled to take place from October 27 to November 5, with six teams expected to participate. The lineup includes hosts India, Pakistan, China, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea.

Under the current schedule, Jalandhar will host the opening ceremony and league-stage matches from October 27 to November 2. The semi-finals and final are scheduled to be played in Mohali on November 4 and 5.

Pakistan’s league match against India is currently scheduled for November 1 in Jalandhar.

The PHF’s latest position means Pakistan is seeking to avoid playing its fixtures on Indian soil rather than pulling out of the competition. The federation has specifically indicated its willingness to play India and the other participating teams at a neutral venue.

Pakistan had also withdrawn from the Junior World Cup in Tamil Nadu last year amid heightened tensions between the two neighbouring countries.