Pakistan Receives Invitation to FIH Pro League

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is facing financial difficulties that could prevent them from participating in the upcoming FIH Pro League. PHF Secretary General Rana Mujahid highlighted these challenges during a press conference on Thursday.

The Green Shirts were formally invited by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) to participate in the next Pro League season, stepping in after Nations Cup champions New Zealand withdrew for unspecified reasons.

Financial Hurdles

“Participation in the Pro League requires significant financial backing. The expenses are considerable,” Rana Mujahid stated. “We are hoping the Prime Minister can assist us in overcoming this hurdle.”

Pakistan, who were the runners-up in the Nations Cup final in Malaysia, losing to New Zealand 6-2, are being considered as their replacements in the Pro League.

However, the PHF’s participation hinges on securing sufficient funds to cover the costs.

Funding Requirements

Sources indicate that over Rs 500 million (approximately $2.5 million) is required to ensure the team’s participation in the league.

The federation has been asked to provide a preliminary response to the FIH by Friday, June 27.

“If we receive support from the Prime Minister, we will be able to proceed,” Rana Mujahid reiterated. “Currently, we have sponsorships from private organizations, but it is not sufficient to meet the financial demands of the Pro League.”

Government Support

Yasser Pirzada, Director General of the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), addressed the situation, saying, “We are currently reviewing the proposal presented by the Hockey Federation. The financial commitment required for the Pro League is different from what is spent on cricket.”

“Our aim is to support every federation, and we will assess the level of assistance we can provide,” he added.

Rana Mujahid confirmed that the PHF will adhere to the directives of the government and the Sports Board.

He also announced Pakistan’s participation in the Junior Asia Hockey Cup and hinted at further engagements: “We will be sending a team to China tomorrow to compete in a tournament.”

Reflecting on the team’s recent performance, he noted, “Our performance in the FIH Nations Hockey Cup was satisfactory. We performed well in the recent tournament.”

Urgent Decision Needed

While the PHF is actively pursuing participation in the Pro League, the federation is under pressure to quickly secure the necessary funding.

Failure to confirm participation or to withdraw after confirming could lead to penalties and potential sanctions from the FIH.

The next FIH Pro League edition is scheduled to commence in February 2026.

Confirmation of participation would mark Pakistan’s return to the league after a long absence, which is seen as crucial for boosting the country’s international hockey presence.

The national team is currently ranked 17th globally, and regular participation in major tournaments is deemed essential for improving its global ranking.

The FIH is expected to make a formal announcement about Pakistan’s inclusion in the Pro League in the coming days.