FIH Hockey Pro League: Pakistan is set to play in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2025-26 season after the team accepted an invitation to take part in the tournament, confirmed the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
The Pakistan hockey team was extended the invitation to join the Pro League after New Zealand opted out of the competition. The Kiwis had won the FIH Hockey Nations Cup final against Pakistan played in Malaysia earlier this year.
Therefore, as per the regulations, FIH extended the invitation to the r unners-up, namely Pakistan, who have confirmed their participation.
This marks the first time the Green Shirts will feature in the FIH Hockey Pro League.
FIH President Tayyab Ikram said: “Great to see Pakistan back in elite competition – this is a truly impactful milestone for world hockey. Their return marks not only the comeback of a team with such a rich and storied history, but also an exciting boost to the visibility and reach of the FIH Hockey Pro League. I can already anticipate an enhanced visibility of the Pro League with Pakistan’s participation.”
“Congratulations to the Pakistan men’s team for qualifying through the FIH Hockey Nations Cup and earning their place in the ‘League of the Best’ for the very first time. This achievement is a strong example of how creating more opportunities at every level of our sport fosters growth and provides a natural pathway to the very top.”
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Pakistan will join Argentina, Australia, Belgium, England, Germany, India, Netherlands, and Spain in the upcoming men’s season of the FIH Hockey Pro League – the seventh edition of the competition. They will replace Ireland who were relegated at the end of the previous season, following their ninth place finish in the league.
The upcoming season of the FIH Pro League will also serve as a qualifying event for the LA 2028 Olympics.
Pakistan are three-time Olympic champions in hockey and four-time Hockey World Cup winners. Their participation also ensures two India vs Pakistan hockey matches as part of the tournament format.
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The FIH Hockey Pro League, launched in 2019, features nine of the best national teams in the world across both men’s and women’s categories.
Also Read: Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025: How To Get Free Tickets
Each team plays 16 matches. The team with the highest points at the end is crowned champion, while the bottom-placed side is relegated to the second-tier Nations Cup. Meanwhile, the Nations Cup winner earns promotion to the Pro League.
In the six editions held so far, the Netherlands have been dominant. The Dutch women’s team has won five titles, while the men have claimed three crowns. Both are also the reigning champions in their respective divisions.
