Pakistan approached the Asian Hockey Federation seeking to shift the Asian Champions Trophy to a neutral venue, citing the need for uninterrupted participation. But the appeal was firmly rejected by India, who is hosting this yearโs edition.
Pakistan approached the Asian Hockey Federation to shift the Asian Champions Trophy matches to a neutral venue. With India hosting the ACT hockey event this year, they want to ensure full participation in the continental tournament by playing uninterrupted at an impartial venue.
India, however, has strictly denied their appeal.
The men’s hockey Asian Champions Trophy 2026 will be hosted in Punjab, with Mohali and Jalandhar set to serve as the host cities for the upcoming tournament.
PHF demands neutral venue
PHF’s interim President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani requested to shift the entire tournament or all of Pakistan’s matches to a neutral venue. In the statement, Wani cited the ‘sensitive bilateral situation’ between them and India as the key reason behind their request, as they want to ensure a safe space for the players and team officials.
“The decision has been taken in view of the current sensitive bilateral situation between Pakistan and India and the prevailing security conditions, with the aim of ensuring a safe, dignified and conducive environment for the national players and officials,” Wani said in the statement.
Despite their vague request, Pakistan claimed that they are entirely committed to the Asian Champions Trophy and promoting hockey globally. They are also hopeful that AFH will take their appeal for a neutral venue under consideration.
More from Hockey NewsHI rejects appeal
India has rejected Pakistan’s appeal for a neutral venue, with Hockey India secretary general and AHF vice-president Bhola Nath Singh saying there will not be any venue change.
“No such request would be entertained. There will be no change in venue. In the past also Pakistan did this; if they want to play in Asian Champions Trophy they will have to come to India,” Bhola Nath told PTI.
The Asian Champions Trophy, a continental men’s hockey event, will take place from October 27 to November 5 in Punjab.