Rajgir in Bihar is set to host Hero Asia Cup Hockey 2025 tournament in August this year. An Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Hockey India and Bihar State Sports Authority to formalize this collaboration. This marks another significant milestone in state’s growing reputation as a hub for international sports.
About Men’s Asia Cup Hockey 2025
Event Duration: August 29 to September 7, 2025. The matches will be played at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
Qualifier for World Cup: The tournament serves as a qualifier for the 2026 FIH World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands.
Historic Precedence: Rajgir previously hosted the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November last year, where India emerged victorious.
Spectator Expectation: The event is expected to attract around 20,000 spectators, underscoring its significance for Bihar.
World Cup Qualification: The winner of tournament will secure direct qualification for the 2026 FIH World Cup, intensifying the competitive spirit among participating teams.
Tournament Format:
- 12th Edition: This edition of the Hero Asia Cup will feature the participation of 8 teams.
- Direct Entries: Teams like India, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, China, and Malaysia are already confirmed.
- Qualification Route: The remaining two teams will earn their spots via the qualifying tournament (AHF Cup).
Historical Context:
- South Korea stands as the most successful team with five titles (1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, 2022).
- India and Pakistan have each secured the championship three times, with India winning in 2003, 2007, and 2017 and Pakistan in 1982, 1985, and 1989.