In a major boost to hockey enthusiasm in India, Hockey India has announced free entry for spectators for the Rourkela leg of the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025–26. The decision is expected to draw massive crowds to the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, the world’s largest hockey arena, and further strengthen India’s growing reputation as a global hub for the sport.
The Rourkela leg of the prestigious international tournament will feature some of the world’s top men’s hockey teams competing against the Indian squad on home soil. By offering free tickets, Hockey India aims to make the sport more accessible to fans, inspire young players, and create an electric stadium atmosphere that can energise the national team.
Officials said the initiative reflects Hockey India’s long-term vision of expanding the sport beyond traditional centres and deepening its grassroots connect. Rourkela, located in Odisha’s Sundargarh district, is often referred to as the cradle of Indian hockey, having produced several legendary players over the decades. The city has already proven its credentials as a world-class host, having successfully staged the FIH Hockey World Cup and multiple international tournaments in recent years.
According to Hockey India, fans will be able to collect free passes through designated online platforms and physical counters closer to match days. While entry will be free, organisers have clarified that standard security checks and seating protocols will remain in place to ensure smooth conduct of the matches. Special arrangements are also being planned for students, academies, and local hockey clubs to attend in large numbers.
The FIH Men’s Pro League is considered one of the most competitive annual international hockey tournaments, featuring home-and-away matches across multiple countries. For India, the Rourkela leg holds particular importance as it offers valuable ranking points and high-intensity match exposure ahead of major global events, including continental championships and Olympic qualifiers.
Players and coaches have welcomed the decision, noting that home crowd support often plays a decisive role in tight contests. The Indian men’s team has enjoyed strong backing in Odisha, with packed stands, loud chants, and an atmosphere that often unsettles visiting teams. Free entry is expected to amplify that advantage, turning each match into a festival-like celebration of hockey.
The Odisha government, a long-time sponsor and supporter of Indian hockey, is also working closely with Hockey India to ensure seamless logistics, crowd management, and fan engagement activities around the matches. Cultural programmes, fan zones, and grassroots outreach initiatives are expected to be held alongside the games to maximise public participation.
Sports analysts see the move as a smart step at a time when Indian hockey is enjoying renewed interest, driven by consistent international performances and increased media coverage. By lowering entry barriers, Hockey India hopes to convert casual viewers into long-term supporters and inspire the next generation to take up the sport.
As anticipation builds for the FIH Men’s Pro League 2025–26, Rourkela is once again set to be at the heart of global hockey action. With free tickets, world-class facilities, and top-tier international competition, the stage is perfectly set for fans to witness high-octane hockey and rally behind India in their quest for global supremacy.
