Punjab is ready to host 2030 Hockey World Cup, says Mann
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann cited the state's sporting legacy and infrastructure as readiness for the global tournament.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann asserted on Thursday that the state is fully prepared to host the 2030 Hockey World Cup. According to Sportstar, Mann highlighted the state's legacy of 77 Olympians and 48 Olympic medal winners as a reason why Punjab is a natural destination for global sporting events.
The pitch for the tournament follows the successful organisation of the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, where India defeated Japan 4-1 in the final at the Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali. The Tribune reported that Mann reportedly sought hosting rights during a meeting with Hockey India general secretary Bhola Nath on October 27.
To support sports development, the government has earmarked Rs 1,744 crore. Mann stated that six new hockey astroturf grounds have been constructed during his tenure, with two more currently underway, alongside 18 six-a-side astroturf grounds established at the grassroots level.
The proposal has been welcomed by sports personalities, including Olympian Hardeep Singh Grewal (Neeta), who said hosting the event would inspire the next generation. Other officials and former players, such as Hockey Ludhiana general secretary Ajay Pal Singh Poonia, also backed the initiative.
While a final decision on the venue is pending, Mann reportedly suggested that an announcement could be made during the Asian Champions Trophy final on November 5.