Punjab Newsline | Mohali
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday unveiled the Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, announcing that the prestigious hockey tournament will begin in Jalandhar on October 27 and conclude with the final in Mohali on November 5.
The tournament will feature six teams — India, Pakistan, Japan, Malaysia, China and South Korea — while Oman and Bangladesh have been named as reserve teams. The Chief Minister also unveiled the official logo of the championship in the presence of Hockey India officials and players.
Mann announced that the Punjab Government has allocated a budget of ₹25.40 crore for the event and said spectators will be allowed free entry to all matches. He assured that the state government will make all necessary arrangements to ensure the successful hosting of the tournament.
Highlighting Punjab’s sporting legacy, Mann said visiting players will be introduced to the state’s sports industry and hockey infrastructure. Teams will be taken to sports manufacturing hubs and hockey facilities to showcase Punjab’s contribution to the game.
The government also plans to give international players a taste of Punjab’s culture and heritage. Participants are expected to enjoy traditional Punjabi cuisine, including sarson da saag and makki di roti, and visit iconic destinations such as Amritsar, the Wagah Border and Jallianwala Bagh.
Special cultural programs will be organised during every match, with a focus on engaging children and promoting hockey among the younger generation. Veteran and legendary hockey players will also be honoured during the tournament.
Chief Minister further said that the state is working towards launching junior and senior hockey leagues and confirmed that Punjab will have both men’s and women’s teams participating in the Hockey India League.
