Asian Champions Trophy: Pakistan hockey refuses to play in India, seeks neutral venue

Pakistan hockey has asked the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) to either move the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy outside of India or let them play their matches with India at a neutral venue. Mohali is scheduled to host the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy from October 27.

Pakistan Hockey Federation president Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani said in an official statement that the federation has approached the Asian Hockey Federation with a request to either move the 2026 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy to another location or have all of Pakistan’s matches played at a neutral venue. The statement said that the decision was made after looking into the current sensitive relation between both countries and to ensure a safe environment for the Pakistan players and staff.

"This decision has been made in light of the current sensitive bilateral situation



and security conditions between Pakistan and India, ensuring a safe, dignified, and conducive environment for our national players and officials."

"Pakistan remains fully committed to the Asian Champions Trophy and the global promotion of hockey. We are prepared to play against all FIH member nations, including India, and stand firmly by the principle of keeping sports separate from politics."

"We strongly hope that the Asian Hockey Federation will favorably consider our honorable proposal for a neutral venue to ensure Pakistan's uninterrupted and full participation," read the statement from Pakistan hockey.

The announcement from Pakistan hockey comes just days after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that the team will play the Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5 in Jalandhar and Mohali.