International Hockey Federation withdraws Champions Trophy from India over governance issues
It will be another shock for Indian hockey which is already passing through their worst time in their history, as the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has withdrawn the hosting rights of Champions Trophy from India that was scheduled to be held in December
2011.
The decision was taken after the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) and Hockey India (HI) – the two governing bodies – failed to resolve the managerial issues. The new venue though has not been announced thus far, however, it would be finalised within next few
days. It is vital to mention here that the event will be played on the same dates from December 3 to 11, 2011. Leandro Negre, the President of FIH in a statement issued here on Tuesday said that it was quite difficult decision but they took it in the best
interests of the sport.
He stated, “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.”
The World’s hockey governing body was of the opinion that the real issue is the governance structure to govern the sport in the county. Under the FIH Statutes and Olympic Charter, only one governing unit of any sport could work in the country with responsibilities
and exclusive authorities. The sole body is responsible to run all the sport affairs including organisation of matches, selections of teams and other necessary things.
Chairman FIH Athlete Committee and former Olympian Dr. Michael Green spoke with the media saying, “The first priority has to be the athletes, and while this was a tough decision for the FIH to make, I feel that they have ultimately made the choice that is
best for the athletes involved.”
The IHF and HI made an interim contract to jointly run the sports affairs in the county. However, the FIH expressed reservations over the agreement and asked the two bodies to resolve the matters at their first priority.
The Indians will have to play the Champions Challenge in South Africa in order to book a place in the Champions Trophy. It will be interesting to see what impact the withdrawal of the Champions Trophy will have on the governing bodies in India.
The current row between IHF and HI has created uncertain conditions within Indian hockey, which is bound to have a serious negative impact for India. The loss of such a big tournament can possibly lead to the cancellation of other big sporting events within
India, causing not only embarrassment but serious financial implications for sports within the country.
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