Chennai | The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has confirmed that the next Junior Hockey World Cup will continue with a 24-team format, while the Senior Men’s Hockey World Cup will maintain its traditional 16-team lineup. FIH President Tayyab Ikram emphasised that the decision reflects a balanced approach towards global hockey development without compromising competitive integrity.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup in Chennai, Ikram said expanding the junior tournament supports the growth of emerging hockey nations. “The Junior Hockey World Cup is a platform for development, and a 24-team format allows more countries to gain exposure at the highest level,” he said.
However, the senior event will not see an expansion anytime soon. Ikram noted that increasing the number of participating teams could widen the performance gap. “We must ensure a competitive tournament. If the senior World Cup expands beyond 16 teams, the disparity between top and lower-ranked teams will grow significantly,” he explained.
Multiple Countries in the Race to Host Junior World Cup
Ikram revealed that five to six nations are already in contention to host the next edition of the Junior World Cup. He emphasised that hosting rights are awarded strictly on the basis of bids, not market size or commercial appeal.
When asked about India’s prospects of hosting future major events, Ikram acknowledged the country’s growing importance in global hockey. “Asia is witnessing more international hockey events, and India has become a major sporting market,” he said. “India always has sponsors ready for any event, and it remains the biggest commercial supporter of hockey. But hosting rights are granted only through a fair bidding process.”
Promoting Gender Equality in Global Hockey
Highlighting FIH’s commitment to gender equity, Ikram said the organisation ensures equal participation of men and women across all levels. “We believe in gender equality in every aspect—players, officials, technical staff, administrators, and volunteers,” he stated.
Ikram added that FIH has already begun equal representation of male and female umpires at major events, including the Paris Olympics. “This balance will only increase in the coming years,” he affirmed.
As the Chennai and Madurai venues host teams from six to seven nations making their debut in the Junior World Cup, Ikram praised the enthusiastic participation of families who travelled across continents to watch their young athletes compete. “This is the true spirit of global hockey,” he remarked.
With structural reforms, development-focused tournaments, and a strong push for equality, the FIH is steering the sport into a new era—one that promises both inclusiveness and competitiveness on the world stage.
