Asian Champions Trophy: Pakistan Says No to India, Requests Neutral Venue

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has asked the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) to reconsider.

The venue for the 2026 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to be held in India from October 27 to November 5. Pakistan has proposed either shifting the entire tournament outside India or arranging for its matches to be played at a neutral venue.

PHF president Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani said the request was made after assessing the current sensitive relations between India and Pakistan and concerns over the safety of the Pakistani contingent.

In a statement, the PHF said the move was intended to provide a “safe, dignified, and conducive environment” for its players and officials.

Despite seeking a venue change, Pakistan said it remains committed to the tournament and is willing to face all FIH member nations, including India. The federation also reiterated its position that sporting competitions should remain separate from political issues.

“Pakistan remains fully committed to the Asian Champions Trophy and the global promotion of hockey. We are prepared to play against all FIH member nations, including India, and stand firmly by the principle of keeping sports separate from politics,” the PHF said.

The federation urged the AHF to consider its proposal for a neutral venue, arguing that it would ensure Pakistan’s uninterrupted participation in the competition.

The request comes shortly after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the tournament would be staged in Jalandhar and Mohali. Asked about Pakistan’s participation, Mann said multinational competitions were different from bilateral series between India and Pakistan.

“There is no problem in multinational tournaments. Maybe individual series (India and Pakistan) cannot take place,” Mann said.

India does not permit bilateral sporting engagements with Pakistan. The policy came under renewed focus following the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people were killed, and the military action that subsequently took place between the two countries.

At the same time, the Sports Ministry has maintained that the Olympic Charter permits Indian and Pakistani athletes to compete against each other in multilateral competitions. Consequently, Pakistani athletes are not barred from travelling to India when taking part in such international events.