WEBDESK: Pakistan Asia Cup participation is under serious threat after recent political tensions with India. The Men’s Asia Cup hockey tournament is set to be held in Rajgir, Bihar, from August 27 to September 7, 2025. However, following the tragic Pahalgam attack, India has revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals, putting Pakistan Asia Cup participation at risk.
This tournament is extremely important because it acts as a qualifier for the 2026 Hockey World Cup, co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. Without proper visas, the Pakistan hockey team cannot travel to India, leaving their Asia Cup journey uncertain. Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) General Secretary Rana Mujahid said that while the PHF has good relations with Hockey India, participation depends entirely on government approval.
Speaking to Telecom Asia Sport from Lahore, Mujahid said the situation has completely changed in the aftermath of the unfortunate terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
“We have good relations with Hockey India, but the team’s visit is a government-to-government issue. We will request our government to allow us to participate. If they approve, we’ll go – but if they decline, there’s no chance. The Indian government has revoked all Pakistani visas; how can our team visit India in such circumstances?” he said.
Pakistan Asia Cup participation is crucial not only for the players but also for the country’s future in international hockey. Rana Mujahid highlighted that the team is ready and eager to compete, but the final decision will come from the authorities based on the current political situation.
Meanwhile, Hockey India General Secretary Bhola Nath Singh stated that no discussions have yet taken place regarding the Pakistani team’s participation. They are also waiting for directions from their government before making any further moves.
“We haven’t had any discussions on the tournament yet. We will await guidance from our government and take a decision at the appropriate time,” said Bhola Nath Singh.
In the past decade, Pakistani hockey teams have traveled to India for major events like the 2014 Champions Trophy, the 2018 Hockey World Cup, and the 2021 Junior World Cup. Despite past visits, current strained relations have made Pakistan Asia Cup participation uncertain this time.
