Hockey Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 to Begin in Jalandhar

October 8, 2026

A major international hockey event is set to take place in Punjab. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced the schedule for the Hockey Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026. The tournament will begin in Jalandhar on October 27, while the final will be played in Mohali on November 5.

Teams from Six Countries to Participate

Six countries will participate in the prestigious tournament. Apart from India, teams from Bangladesh, Japan, Malaysia, China and Korea will compete in the event. Oman and Bangladesh have been kept as reserve teams. Along with the schedule, the official tournament logo was also launched. Hockey India players and other officials associated with the event were present on the occasion.

₹25.40 Crore Budget, Free Entry for Spectators

The Punjab government has allocated a budget of ₹25.40 crore for organizing the tournament. According to the Punjab government spectators will not be charged any entry fee throughout the tournament. The Punjab government will be responsible for making the necessary arrangements to ensure better facilities for both players and spectators.

Punjab Described as the Nursery of Hockey

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab is known as the nursery of hockey in the country. hockey is an important part of the lives of people in Punjab and several players from the state represent the Indian hockey team. the tournament will give Punjab an opportunity to host a major international hockey event. Emphasis will also be placed on providing national-level facilities to players.

Focus on Children and Legendary Players

Preparations are also underway to involve children in the tournament. Cultural programmes will be organized during the matches. Former and legendary hockey players will also be honoured. The Punjab government is working towards organizing hockey leagues at both junior and senior levels. The focus is on strengthening the foundation of hockey in the state and promoting emerging talent.

Punjab Teams to Participate in Hockey India League

The Punjab government has also stated that efforts are being made to ensure the participation of Punjab’s men’s and women’s teams in the Hockey India League in the future. This is expected to provide players from the state with opportunities to showcase their talent on a bigger platform.