Amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has reportedly written to the International Hockey Federation (FIH), requesting the relocation of the Junior World Cup fixtures to a neutral venue. The PHF's decision is rooted in security concerns and the strained political relations between the two neighboring nations.

The FIH Men's Junior Hockey World Cup 2025 is scheduled to be held in Chennai and Madurai, India, from November 28 to December 10. This edition will be the first time that 24 teams will compete for the title. Pakistan was placed in Group B alongside India, Chile, and Switzerland.

PHF President Tariq Hussain Bugti has stated that the prevailing "war-like situation" between Pakistan and India makes it impossible for the team to travel to India. He further emphasized that the national cause is bigger than everything, highlighting the importance of prioritizing the safety and security of the Pakistani athletes. This decision followed Pakistan's withdrawal from the Asia Cup in Rajgir, India, due to similar security concerns.

According to sources, the Indian Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has a revised policy stating that no bilateral sporting events, including cricket, would be permitted between India and Pakistan. However, the directive does not affect participation in multilateral tournaments, such as the Asia Cup or World Cups, allowing for limited engagement in neutral or global competitions. Despite this policy, the PHF remains concerned about the security situation and has requested the FIH to move the matches to a neutral venue.

In light of these developments, the FIH had previously postponed the official draw for the Junior World Cup, initially scheduled for June 24, raising concerns about Pakistan's participation. Although the FIH cited "technical reasons" for the delay, sources suggested that the postponement was linked to the strained relations between India and Pakistan. The draw has since taken place on June 28, 2025.

This is not the first time that political tensions have affected Pakistan's participation in the Junior Hockey World Cup. Pakistan also missed the 2016 edition of the tournament, which was held in India, due to visa issues and other complications.

Despite the PHF's request for a change of venue, Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh had initially confirmed Pakistan's participation in the Junior World Cup, assuring smooth arrangements despite recent political tensions and security concerns. However, the PHF's recent stance suggests that the situation remains unresolved.

The PHF has informed the FIH about their decision and expressed hope that Pakistan will be given an opportunity to qualify for the senior World Cup through a qualifying round. The federation also acknowledged that not participating in international events in India would hurt the country's hockey prospects.

The final decision regarding the relocation of the Junior World Cup fixtures rests with the FIH. It remains to be seen whether the international governing body will heed Pakistan's request or if the tournament will proceed as planned in India.