Sports Over Politics: Haryana Minister Rejects Pakistan’s Call for Neutral Hockey Venue

During the Asian Games 2026 launch, Haryana Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam addressed a diplomatic row involving the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy in field hockey. Pakistan’s Hockey Federation asked that matches scheduled in Mohali be moved to a neutral location.

Gautam responded firmly: “Sport must be viewed through the lens of competition, not politics. Players are the heritage of their nations and should rise above any external pressure.”

He emphasized that the tournament will proceed in Punjab as planned and called for all participants to focus on fair play.

The minister’s comments came as Haryana athletes prepared to compete, with 80 competitors from the state representing India across a range of sports at the Games in Japan.