“Disappointed that India is again hosting Men’s Hockey World Cup” Belgium player’s remark creates controversy

The Men’s Hockey World Cup 2023 is currently taking place, and there have been some fantastic matches. The host nation, India, is playing world-class hockey, and they defeated Spain with a score of 2-0 in the tournament’s opening match. They also played England to a thrilling 0-0 stalemate.

Wales, who are competing in their first Hockey World Cup with a relatively young group compared to the prior squad, will be their next opponent.

All the best Team Hockey India @DilipTirkey @FIH_Hockey #HockeyWorldCup2023 pic.twitter.com/zURQ4kUQda

— Sukhwinder Singh (@Sukhwindermusic) January 15, 2023

The Men’s Hockey World Cup is being hosted by India in Orissa for the second time in a row, and everything is running smoothly. The enthusiasm of the local hockey fans is unparalleled.

Hockey Unlimited, Fans Unlimited !

Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium Rourkela. 🏟️#HWC2023 #OdishaForHockey #HockeyWorldCup2023 #HockeyComesHome #HockeyWorldCup pic.twitter.com/EZVBfazDHs

— Odisha Sports (@sports_odisha) January 16, 2023

Elliot van Strydonck, a player for Belgium, recently made a statement that has caused a great deal of controversy on social media. He said, as reported by the Indian Express, that he was disappointed that “India is once again hosting the major event because the Red Lions have dominated hockey for the past four years. The situation is regrettable for all Belgian hockey fans “.

He further added “The reason India is given the opportunity to host World Cup again is their ability to fill their stadium with 20,000 sitting capacity. The presence of global sponsors like Hero and Orissa is another factor regarding handing over the hosting to them. The media coverage when it comes to Hockey is very limited. Keeping financial aspects in mind India deserve to host this but when it comes to Sporting fairness this is not right”

In a recent interview to media, #Belgium hockey player Elliot van Strydonck expressed his disappointment over #India hosting #HockeyWorldCup2023 https://t.co/9B5kZDVC9s

— NDTV Sports (@Sports_NDTV) January 14, 2023

Given that hockey is an extremely popular sport in parts of the states of Orissa, the Statement has generated a great deal of debate on social media.

The current Hockey World Cup will end in Kalinga Stadium in Bhubneshwar on January 29, 2023.