Indian Hockey Legend Vece Paes Passes Away at 80

Dr. Vece Paes, a distinguished hockey player and Olympic bronze medalist, passed away at the age of 80 on August 14, 2025. He was admitted to Woodlands Hospital earlier that week due to advanced stages of Parkinson’s disease. Vece Paes was not only known for his athletic prowess but also as the father of Indian tennis icon Leander Paes.

Born in Goa in April 1945, Dr. Paes earned acclaim for his contributions to both sports and academics. He was a member of the Indian hockey team that secured a bronze medal at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games. In addition to his athletic achievements, he held a doctorate in sports medicine and served as president of the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club.

Vece Paes maintained a strong connection to various sports throughout his life. Beyond hockey, he played cricket, football, and rugby, ultimately becoming president of the Indian Rugby Football Union from 1996 to 2002. His dedication to sports extended into his professional life, where he worked as a medical consultant for several sports organizations, including the Asian Cricket Council and the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

His family plans to conduct his last rites on either Monday or Tuesday, waiting for the arrival of his daughters, who currently reside abroad. Vece was married to Jennifer Paes, a former basketball player and national team captain, who shared his passion for sports.

Hockey India Honors Vece Paes’ Legacy

The news of Dr. Paes’ passing elicited a heartfelt response from Hockey India, where he is remembered as a significant figure in the sport’s history. Dr. Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, expressed condolences to Vece’s family and acknowledged the impact he had on Indian hockey.

“It is a sad day for us in Hockey India. The passing of Dr. Paes draws curtains on a great era of hockey. The Olympic medal in Munich is a testament to their grit and determination,” Tirkey said. He noted that Dr. Paes was a passionate advocate for promoting a sporting culture in India, inspiring many through his commitment to athletics.

Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh also extended condolences, recognizing the indelible mark Vece Paes left on sports in the country. “His achievements in sports and sports science will always be remembered, and his legacy will live on forever,” Singh stated.

A Lasting Influence

Dr. Vece Paes’ influence reached beyond his own accomplishments. His son, Leander Paes, has become one of India’s most successful tennis players, winning a remarkable 18 Grand Slam titles. Leander’s success, including a bronze medal in men’s singles at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, reflects the family’s commitment to sporting excellence.

Vece Paes leaves behind a rich legacy in Indian sports, marked by his contributions to hockey and sports medicine. His dedication to nurturing talent and promoting sports culture will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.