Hockey to be axed from 2026 Commonwealth Games, report reveals possible reason

Hockey will be dropped from the 2026 Commonwealth Games as host city Glasgow looks to cut costs, several media reports said here, but both the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the Games Federation of the Commonwealth (CGF) remained tight-lipped. the matter Hockey has featured at every CWG since its debut in 1998, but according to reports here, Glasgow Games organizers want to drop it from the schedule along with ball and road racing to ensure a trimmed program that be easy on the budget.

Scotland stepped in to save the 2026 Games after the Australian state of Victoria pulled out due to rising costs. The schedule should be announced this Tuesday.

When contacted by PTI, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) declined comment until the list was officially released.

“In a couple of days, the situation will be clear – you will get the information accordingly. From our side, until there is any official communication from CGF, we are not in a position to give you any comment,” he said a responsible

The CGF also gave a similar response.

“The sports program for the 2026 Commonwealth Games will be confirmed tomorrow,” said a statement from the body when approached for clarification on media reports.

The likely omission of hockey could also be due to the fact that the Games, which will be held from July 23 to August 2, are being held close to the World Cup which is scheduled two weeks later from 15 to 30 August in Wavre, Belgium and Amstelveen. Netherlands.

To cut costs, the organizers of the Glasgow Games have reduced the number of sporting disciplines from 19 (in Birmingham in 2022) to 10 with only four venues proposed: Commonwealth Arena and Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, Scotstoun Stadium, Tollcross International Swimming Center and Scottish Campus events. .

None of these places have field hockey.

Hockey’s exclusion from the Games would be a big blow to India as its men’s team is a three-time silver and two-time bronze medalist in the sport. The women have won three medals, including a gold in the 2000 edition.

The biggest success would be Australia, who have won men’s gold a record seven times and top women’s honors in four editions.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is being published from a syndicated feed.)