Pakistan to Host FIH Olympics Qualifiers 2023, Marking a Significant Return to International Hockey

Pakistan Hockey Federation Excited to Bring Marquee Event Back Home:

The World Hockey Community rejoices as Pakistan secures the hosting rights for the FIH Olympics Qualifiers 2023, ending a 19-year gap since their last hosting in 2004. Set to take place in Lahore from January 13th to 24th next year, this event holds great significance for the country’s sports presence.

In a statement, Haider Hussain, the current secretary general of FIH, expressed his delight, stating that the Pakistan Hockey Federation is pleased to bring back the prestigious FIH event after a long hiatus. This remarkable opportunity, featuring the FIH Olympic Qualifiers, is expected to reignite the enthusiasm for sports in the nation.

Hussain highlighted the efforts made by the Pakistan Hockey Federation in persuading the International Hockey Federation to allocate this event to Pakistan. The support received from numerous hockey-playing nations in this cause played a vital role in bringing back the popular game to the country.

Despite failing to qualify in the previous two Olympic Qualifiers in 2016 and 2021, Pakistan Hockey remains optimistic about the immense support they anticipate from fans during the matches held in Lahore.

The forthcoming marquee event will witness intense competition among the top five Asian teams, seven European teams, and representatives from Oceania and Africa in the qualifying rounds.

Pakistan, currently ranked 16th in the world, is set to host this prestigious tournament, which will feature powerhouse teams like India, Korea, Malaysia, Japan, and China.

Meanwhile, the Indian Men’s Hockey Team has made significant strides in recent years, credited to the collective efforts of various stakeholders. Currently placed 4th in the FIH Pro League, they clinched a Bronze Medal in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and are now gearing up for the Asian Championship Trophy in Chennai. The team’s final squad for the mega event will be determined based on their performance in the upcoming four nations tournament in Spain.

Stay tuned for more updates and thrilling hockey action as Pakistan prepares to host the FIH Olympics Qualifiers 2023, marking a remarkable resurgence of the sport in the country.