Veteran Indian midfielder Manpreet Singh has declared that the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 could be his final appearance at the tournament, and that he is more determined than ever to secure the one medal that has eluded him throughout a decorated career. Speaking ahead of the marquee event, Manpreet said a World Cup medal remains the single unfulfilled objective for him and for Indian hockey.

The One Trophy That Still Eludes India

India last won the men's Hockey World Cup in 1975 — a wait of 51 years that the current squad is desperate to end. The team arrives at the 2026 edition with considerable momentum, having claimed back-to-back Olympic bronze medals at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. Yet, as Manpreet acknowledged, Olympic glory has not filled the World Cup void.

'This World Cup means a lot to me because it's my fourth edition. We have won back-to-back Olympic medals, but a World Cup medal is still missing,' Manpreet said in an interview with JioStar. 'Every player dreams of having both. For me, this could be my last World Cup, so I am approaching it with that mindset. I am determined to achieve what we haven't yet.'

Squad Balance and Camp Preparations

Manpreet struck a confident note about India's readiness, pointing to a blend of youth and experience as the squad's core strength. He noted that senior players have actively mentored younger members of the group.

'I have full faith in this team. Our squad has a good balance of youth and experience. Senior players like our captain Harmanpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, and I have shared our learnings with the younger players about what worked, what didn't, and how to approach each match with full focus,' he said.

On the tactical front, Manpreet highlighted fitness and defensive solidity as the two pillars the coaching staff have prioritised. 'Our coach has emphasised fitness because we know that being fit helps us compete against the best. We have also worked hard on our defence. A solid defence gives us the confidence to attack and take control of the game,' he added.

Harmanpreet Singh: A Captain Who Leads From the Front

Manpreet was effusive in his praise for captain Harmanpreet Singh, describing him as one of the finest drag-flickers in world hockey and a calm, organising presence on the field.

'Harmanpreet is an exceptional captain. He leads from the front and guides everyone on the field. He motivates the players during tough moments and keeps the team calm under pressure. His ability to read the game is top class,' Manpreet said. 'He is easily one of the best drag-flickers in the world. He has great power and variation in his hits, and he always steps up when the team needs him most. Having a captain like him gives the whole team confidence.'

Confidence of Reaching the Final

Manpreet stopped short of nothing in his ambition, expressing full confidence that India would reach the World Cup final. 'I am confident that we will reach the final of the World Cup. The team is playing with great belief and giving 100 per cent in every single training session. The energy in the camp is high, and every member of the squad is determined to achieve something special,' he said.

This comes amid a broader resurgence in Indian sports, with hockey increasingly positioned as a flagship discipline. Whether the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 delivers India's second-ever title — and Manpreet's long-awaited medal — will be one of the defining stories of the tournament.