The International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced today that India would no longer be hosting the men’s Champions Trophy due to be played between 3rd and 11th December 2011. “Ongoing problems with governance of hockey” in India are cited as the reason.
The decision of the FIH to withdraw the tournament from India follows an agreement between the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) and Hockey India (HI) to work together. The IHF has not been recognised by the FIH since 2000.
The agreement creates a dilemma for the FIH. To quote their press release, “It is a fundamental and non-negotiable requirement of the Olympic Charter and the FIH Statutes that there only be one governing body for any one sport in any country with exclusive authority and responsibility to govern, organize national competitions and to enter national teams in international competitions.”
An alternative venue playing on the same dates is expected to be announced shortly.
FIH President Leandro Negre said following the announcement, ““We regret that we have to move the Champions Trophy from India. It is difficult for the teams, the organizers and the fans. But we feel that this is the only way to maintain the integrity of our sport.”
