Pakistan Withdraws from Junior Hockey World Cup in India

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has formally withdrawn its team from the upcoming FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, scheduled to take place in Tamil Nadu, India, from November 28 to December 28, 2025. This decision, confirmed by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), reflects the strained sporting ties between India and Pakistan, exacerbated by recent geopolitical tensions.

The withdrawal follows a series of events, including the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which has led to India implementing a new policy restricting bilateral sporting events with Pakistan. Despite originally qualifying for the tournament and being placed in Group B alongside India, Chile, and Switzerland, the PHF expressed significant concerns about the safety and logistics of competing in India.

Rana Mujahid, secretary-general of the PHF, stated, “We have urged the FIH to arrange for a neutral venue to allow us to participate and play our matches. Missing out on major events because they are being held in India is hurting our hockey and not helping in the development of our players.” Mujahid’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within Pakistan’s sports community regarding the challenges faced by athletes in competing under current conditions.

He further emphasized the difficulties Pakistani athletes encounter, noting that Indian competitors may be reluctant to engage in friendly gestures, such as shaking hands, even at neutral locations. This situation raises questions about the feasibility of fair competition in the current climate.

On the Indian side, Bholanth Singh, secretary-general of Hockey India, expressed surprise at the withdrawal. “We have no information from FIH that Pakistan has withdrawn. I had a conversation with Pakistan Hockey Federation officials a month-and-a-half ago, and they had confirmed their participation,” he remarked. Singh added that Hockey India remains committed to organizing an exemplary tournament and aspires for a title victory for the host nation.

The withdrawal of the Pakistani team highlights the ongoing challenges that political tensions impose on international sporting events. The PHF’s call for a neutral venue underscores the need for dialogue and cooperation in fostering a conducive environment for sport. As the situation unfolds, both nations face the larger question of how to navigate their sporting relations amidst prevailing geopolitical realities.