Hyderabad poised to become a major sports destination with 2026 Women’s Hockey qualifiers

By HNH Web Desk On Oct 16, 2025

Hyderabad: Telangana Sports and Youth Services Minister Vakiti Srihari announced that the state government would extend full support to national and international sports federations interested in hosting major tournaments in the state. On Thursday, representatives from Hockey India met him at his residence to discuss the possibility of organising the 2026 Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier Tournament in Hyderabad.

Welcoming the delegation, Srihari said Hyderabad already has world-class facilities and strong infrastructure for hosting global sports events. Furthermore, he assured that the government remains committed to promoting sports and will provide every necessary form of assistance to organisers.

Hyderabad poised to become a major sports destination

Hockey India officials inspected the Gachibowli and Begumpet hockey stadiums. They praised the arrangements at Gachibowli Stadium and found it ideal for the Women’s World Cup qualifier matches. The event, according to officials, is likely to take place between February 28 and March 15, 2026.

Later, officials from the Hockey Federation and the Sports Authority of Telangana held discussions on the required preparations. They agreed to submit a detailed report soon and begin the upgrade works immediately after the government grants approval.

Telangana strengthens its focus on sports development

Minister Srihari emphasised that the Congress government considers sports a foundation for youth empowerment and social progress. Therefore, the state will continue investing in stadium development, training centres, and athlete welfare programmes. He added that Telangana aims to make Hyderabad a global sporting hub through collaboration and sustained planning.

Sports Authority Vice-Chairperson and Managing Director Dr A. Soni Baladevi, Hockey India Secretary General Bholanath Singh, Treasurer Sekhar Jai Manoharan, DG VSM R.K. Srivatsava, Director B.N. Bhushan Vikram Paul, Telangana Hockey Association Secretary Bhim Singh, Treasurer Kalyani, and senior officials were also present.