Pakistan Team Returns Home After Qualifying for 2026 Hockey World Cup

The Pakistan national hockey team received a warm reception upon arriving at the airport in Islamabad after securing qualification for the 2026 Hockey World Cup.

Players were greeted enthusiastically by officials and supporters who gathered to celebrate the team’s achievement. The arrival marked an important moment for Pakistan hockey after years of struggling to reach the sport’s biggest stage.

Officials and Federation Representatives Present

Among those present to welcome the team was Federal Parliamentary Secretary Kiran Dar. Representatives from the Pakistan Hockey Federation and officials from the Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination also attended the reception.

Players were honored with flower garlands while rose petals were showered on them as part of the celebration.

Victory Over Japan Secured Qualification

Pakistan booked their place in the 2026 Hockey World Cup by defeating Japan men’s national field hockey team in the semifinal of the qualifying tournament.

The victory ended an eight-year wait for Pakistan, allowing them to return to the prestigious tournament after missing the previous edition.

Netherlands and Belgium to Host World Cup

The upcoming 2026 Hockey World Cup will be jointly hosted by Netherlands and Belgium later this year.

Pakistan’s qualification has raised hopes among fans that the national team can make a strong impact on the global stage once again.

President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation and Federal Secretary IPC, Mohyuddin Wani, praised the team’s performance; lauds efforts of Head Coach Khwaja Junaid and other officials

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan hockey team returned home after participating in the World Cup Qualifying Round. Upon their arrival at Islamabad International Airport, the team management and players received a warm welcome.

On this occasion, Kiran Naz Dar (Member of the National Assembly and Parliamentary Secretary Ministry IPC), Deputy Director General of Pakistan Sports Board Shahid Islam, Hassan (Staff Officer, Inter-Provincial Coordination Ministry), President of Rising Stars Hockey Club Islamabad Mahmood Ahmed, international hockey umpire and Secretary General Rising Stars Hockey Club Sohail Akram Janjua, national hockey umpire Muhammad Azeem, and former national hockey player Khyber Ali were also present.

On this occasion, the guests met with the national team players and management and appreciated their efforts. They also expressed their best wishes for the improvement and development of Pakistan’s national sport, hockey. Pakistan secured their place in the FIH Hockey World Cup after defeating Japan in the semifinal of the qualifying event. The national team has qualified for the World Cup after a gap of eight years, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan hockey.

President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation and Federal Secretary IPC, Mohyuddin Wani, praised the team’s performance and determination, saying the players showed great commitment and resilience throughout the tournament. He added that the qualification for the FIH World Cup is a proud moment for the nation and expressed hope that the team will continue to work hard and deliver strong performances on the international stage.