Uttar Pradesh Celebrates Hockey Legacy as World Cup Trophy Arrives
In a significant pre-tournament ceremony, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath officially welcomed the FIH Men's Junior Hockey World Cup trophy to Lucknow on Wednesday. The event marked a symbolic moment for Indian sports enthusiasts ahead of the prestigious international competition scheduled for late 2025.
Honoring Uttar Pradesh's Golden Hockey History
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that the trophy's arrival in Uttar Pradesh serves as a proud reminder of the state's substantial contributions to Indian hockey. He specifically highlighted that the state has produced some of the nation's most celebrated hockey legends, including the legendary Major Dhyan Chand.
The CM elaborated on this historical connection, stating: "This trophy's arrival in Uttar Pradesh is also a reminder of the state's golden history, as it has made an indelible contribution to hockey. Major Dhyanchand took birth in this very state and under his leadership, Indian Hockey team won gold medals in 3 Olympics."
To honor this legacy, the state government is currently constructing the Major Dhyanchand Sports University in Meerut as a permanent tribute to the hockey icon.
Tournament Details and India's Campaign
The FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place from November 28 to December 10, 2025, across two Tamil Nadu cities: Chennai and Madurai. This edition marks a significant expansion as it will be the first time the tournament features 24 international teams.
Host nation India, which has previously claimed the championship twice (in 2001 and 2016), will be aiming to secure their third title on home soil. The Indian team finds itself in Pool B alongside Oman, Chile, and Switzerland.
India will begin their campaign against Chile on November 28 at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting tournament.
Hockey India Leadership Expresses Confidence
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey, speaking through an official press release, expressed his pride in seeing the Chief Minister unveil the Junior World Cup trophy. He acknowledged Tamil Nadu's strong support for Indian hockey and expressed delight about bringing the prestigious event to Chennai and Madurai.
"The state's world-class facilities, combined with its passion for the sport, will make this edition truly memorable," Tirkey stated, while extending gratitude to the Government of Tamil Nadu and SDAT for their continued support.
Echoing these sentiments, Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh emphasized the tournament's significance for the future of global hockey. "Hosting it in India provides an incredible opportunity for our young players," he said, expressing confidence that the event would set new standards of excellence and inspire a new generation of hockey players nationwide.
The ceremony in Lucknow has successfully built anticipation for what promises to be a landmark event in international junior hockey, connecting India's rich sporting heritage with its promising future in the sport.
