Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday gave a grand welcome to the prestigious FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025 trophy. Speaking on the occasion, he described the event as a “moment of immense pride and joy” for the people of Uttar Pradesh.
Junior World Cup Participation and Overview
The tournament, scheduled from 28 November to 10 December 2025, will be held in Chennai and Madurai. For the first time, 24 teams are participating, including India, China, Belgium, Japan, Spain, New Zealand, Chile, Canada, and Australia. India, the host nation, aims to secure the title for the third time, having previously won in 2001 and 2016.
Honoring Uttar Pradesh’s Hockey Legends
CM Yogi emphasized the historical significance of the trophy’s visit, saying it “recalls the golden era of hockey in Uttar Pradesh.” He remembered hockey legends born in the state, including Major Dhyan Chand, under whose leadership India won three Olympic gold medals.
Highlighting efforts to nurture future talent, the CM said the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut has commenced its first session, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting sports.
The CM also remembered KD Singh Babu, another hockey stalwart from Barabanki, whose residence is being developed into a museum to preserve his legacy.
Celebrating Current and Past Hockey Achievements
Yogi Adityanath highlighted the contribution of numerous hockey players from Uttar Pradesh, such as Padma awardees Mohammad Shahid, Ashok Kumar, Ravindra Pal, Syed Ali, and others. He also noted that current players like Rajkumar Pal, Uttam Singh, Vishnukant Singh, Mumtaz, Sakshi, Jyoti, and Purnima are proudly representing India in senior and junior teams.
Support and Well-Wishes for the Tournament
The CM extended a warm welcome to all officials associated with the Junior World Cup and wished the Indian team success in the tournament. Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Girish Chandra Yadav, departmental secretary Suhas LYV, Director Dr. RP Singh, Hockey India Secretary Bholanath Singh, DG Hockey India Commander RK Srivastava, and other officials were present during the ceremony.
About the Tournament
The FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025 will feature 24 teams competing across Chennai and Madurai, marking a historic expansion of the competition. India, hosting the tournament, will aim to reclaim the trophy for the third time on home soil.
