Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
The Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) has invited a delegation from the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, to Japan to witness the men's and women's hockey semifinals and finals at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games.
The invitation comes at a significant time as Punjab gears up to host the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026 for the first time in its history. The invitation, extended by AHF President Fumio Ogura, covers the women’s and men’s semifinal matches scheduled for September 30 and October 1, and the finals to be held on October 2 and 3.
According to the federation, the visit will provide Punjab officials with an opportunity to closely observe the management and execution of a major international sporting event. The experience is expected to help the state in planning and organizing the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy.
Punjab is set to host the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5, 2026. The tournament will bring Asia’s top hockey nations to the state, with Jalandhar and Mohali jointly serving as host cities. The opening ceremony and league-stage matches will be held in Jalandhar, while the semifinals and final will take place in Mohali.
The event will mark the first time Punjab hosts the prestigious Asian Champions Trophy, a major milestone for a state widely regarded as a powerhouse of Indian hockey. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has described the tournament as an important opportunity for the land that has produced several legendary Indian hockey players.
Teams including India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, China and other leading Asian nations are expected to participate in the tournament. Hosting the event will require world-class arrangements, efficient event management and top-tier sporting infrastructure across both venues.
The Asian Hockey Federation said the exposure gained during the Japan visit could be directly applied to the organization of the Asian Champions Trophy in Punjab. The experience may also benefit the state in planning and hosting future international sporting events.
The federation has sought confirmation of the Punjab Government delegation's visit and details of its members so that necessary travel and event arrangements can be made. For Punjab, the trip represents an opportunity not only to witness hockey at one of Asia’s biggest sporting stages but also to gain valuable practical insights ahead of hosting its own international tournament later this year.
