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The decision to exclude hockey from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow has sparked disappointment and concern within the sporting community, particularly for athletes and officials who view the event as a vital platform for development and recognition. The move, attributed to cost-cutting measures implemented by the Scottish hosts, has drawn criticism from former Indian hockey player Rupinder Pal Singh, who highlights the significance of the Games for the sport's growth and preparation for major tournaments.
Singh, a prominent figure in Indian hockey and a 2014 Commonwealth Games medallist, expresses his concern about the sport's omission, underscoring its importance for both Indian and global hockey. He emphasizes the Commonwealth Games' role in providing a competitive environment for teams like Australia, England, and India to hone their skills and prepare for prestigious tournaments like the World Cup. The lack of a dedicated hockey turf at any of the proposed venues in Glasgow further reinforces the notion that the sport's absence was deliberate and not a matter of logistical constraints.
Beyond its competitive value, the Commonwealth Games hold significant importance for athletes in terms of financial incentives and career opportunities. Winning a medal at the Games often leads to lucrative government jobs and prize money, making it a crucial stepping stone for many aspiring athletes. Singh acknowledges this reality, stating that the omission of hockey deprives Indian athletes of a valuable platform to secure financial support and recognition.
The Federation of International Hockey (FIH), the governing body for the sport, has acknowledged the disappointment over the decision, emphasizing hockey's consistent presence at every Commonwealth Games since 1998. The FIH clarifies that the exclusion of hockey is a one-off event, resulting from the unique circumstances surrounding the 2026 Games, including the late replacement of the original host city and the revised concept that prioritized cost-effectiveness. Despite this, the FIH maintains its commitment to the Commonwealth Games and expresses optimism about future participation, assuring that hockey remains a valued sport within the Commonwealth movement.
The absence of hockey from the 2026 Commonwealth Games underscores the complex dynamics surrounding major sporting events, where financial constraints and political considerations often clash with the aspirations of athletes and sport enthusiasts. While the FIH and the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) have emphasized the exceptional nature of the decision and the importance of hockey within the Commonwealth movement, the short-term implications for athletes and the sport's development remain a cause for concern.
Source: 'Absence of hockey at Commonwealth Games is not a good sign': Rupinder Pal Singh