Tamil Nadu is set to host the prestigious FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup in December 2025, marking an exciting chapter for Indian hockey. This announcement solidifies India’s fourth hosting of the tournament, an event first held in 1979 and now conducted every two years. Tamil Nadu’s selection as the host state signals a growing recognition of its sports infrastructure and the state’s rising prominence in the hockey arena.
Road to Hosting FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup
The Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) has been in talks with Hockey India (HI), the International Hockey Federation (FIH), and the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) over recent months, finalising plans to host the Junior World Cup. “An agreement has been reached, and the finer details will be discussed as early as possible,” said a source close to the development to TOI. Multiple venues are under consideration, with Chennai as the primary location and Madurai being evaluated for additional matches.
Chennai and Madurai in spotlight for Hockey Junior World Cup
Adding Madurai to the list of host cities would expand Tamil Nadu’s footprint in international hockey. Madurai already has a turf-equipped ground, though work will be needed to upgrade its facilities to meet international standards. By hosting in multiple cities, Tamil Nadu aims to involve more local communities and showcase the state’s passion for the sport.
Legacy of Successful Events
The Junior World Cup would be the latest in a series of high-profile events hosted by Tamil Nadu. Chennai recently hosted the Asian Champions Trophy in 2024, a key warm-up for teams before the Hangzhou Asian Games.
The state also held the Senior Men’s National Tournament last year, cementing its reputation as a capable host for both national and international hockey events.
Developing Tamil Nadu’s sports future
Hosting an event of this calibre is expected to have long-term benefits for Tamil Nadu’s sports landscape. The tournament will likely inspire young players in the state, with Hockey India and SDAT focusing on development programmes. By upgrading infrastructure and encouraging local participation, Tamil Nadu aims to create a more robust foundation for future athletes, hoping this World Cup will inspire a new generation of hockey talent.
As Tamil Nadu prepares for this global showcase, hockey fans across India look forward to an exciting tournament that not only brings international players to Chennai and Madurai but also strengthens Tamil Nadu’s place on the global hockey map.
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