Hyderabad, Jan 12 (NationPress) On Monday, Hockey India entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Telangana to hold one of the legs of the Women’s 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad from March 8 to 14 this year.

This prestigious qualification event will see eight international teams competing, including hosts India, England, Scotland, Korea, Italy, Uruguay, Wales, and Austria, all vying for a spot in the FIH Hockey World Cup taking place in Belgium & Netherlands from 15 to 30, 2026.

In Hyderabad, three coveted World Cup spots will be up for grabs, with the top three teams earning direct qualification for the global event. The forthcoming FIH Hockey World Cup is set to feature 16 men’s and 16 women’s teams, with nine teams in each category already confirmed, creating a competitive atmosphere for the qualification phase.

The signing of this MoU emphasizes India’s rising profile as a global center for international hockey and underscores Telangana’s status as a desirable location for significant sporting events.

During the event, A. Revanth Reddy, Chief Minister of Telangana, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “Telangana is honored to collaborate with Hockey India and the FIH to host the Women’s 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad. This event showcases our government’s commitment to promoting sports, empowering women athletes, and establishing Hyderabad as a premier sporting destination. We anticipate a warm welcome for the passionate hockey nations and aim to deliver an exceptional experience for all.”

Telangana Sports Minister Vakiti Srihari remarked, “This is an incredible opportunity to demonstrate our enthusiasm and ambition for sports development in Telangana. Investing in sports is investing in our youth, and we are thrilled to host this prestigious event. It marks a return of international hockey to our state after many years.”

The MoU was signed in the presence of Telangana Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan, Chairman Shivsena Reddy, and other officials from the Telangana government. Notably, FIH President Tayyab Ikram, Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey, and other prominent figures were also present during the signing.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram welcomed this collaboration, stating, “India is vital in the global hockey landscape, and Hyderabad has established itself as an excellent host city. We are excited to see the Government of Telangana and Hockey India join forces to deliver a world-class qualification event, promising thrilling hockey action.”

Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey expressed confidence in the host city, saying, “This MoU represents a crucial achievement for Hockey India as we strive to bring premier international hockey to our nation. Hyderabad possesses the necessary infrastructure, experience, and enthusiastic fan base to host an event of this scale. We are optimistic that the Women’s World Cup Qualifiers will inspire young players across India.”

With qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026 on the line, the Hyderabad qualifiers promise a week filled with intense hockey and a celebration of women’s sports on the global stage.