Rajgir to Host Hero Asia Cup 2025 as Bihar Strengthens Sporting Presence
Patna: Rajgir, the historic city in Bihar, is set to host the Hero Asia Cup 2025 following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Hockey India and the Bihar State Sports Authority on Monday. The tournament, scheduled from August 29 to September 7, will be held at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium, marking a significant milestone in Bihar’s sports infrastructure. This will be the second international sporting event in Rajgir after the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November 2024, where India claimed victory.
The 12th edition of the Asia Cup will feature eight teams, including India, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, China, and Malaysia, with the remaining two teams securing their places through the AHF Cup. South Korea has historically been the most successful team, having won five titles (1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022). India (2003, 2007, 2017) and Pakistan (1982, 1985, 1989) have each claimed three titles. This edition holds additional significance as it serves as a qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, set to be hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. The tournament winner will secure direct qualification, adding to the competitive intensity.
Dr. B Rajendra, Additional Chief Secretary of Bihar’s Department of Sports, described the MoU with Hockey India as a major step in establishing Bihar as a prominent sporting hub. He emphasized the state’s commitment to delivering a world-class tournament and highlighted the newly built Rajgir Hockey Stadium as a reflection of Bihar’s growing investment in sports infrastructure. He thanked Hockey India and the Asian Hockey Federation for their support and expressed confidence that the event would inspire young hockey players in the region.
Asian Hockey Federation President Dato Fumio Ogura welcomed the decision, stating that India remains a key pillar in the development of hockey in Asia. He praised Bihar’s new sporting infrastructure and expressed enthusiasm for a high-quality tournament. Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey echoed similar sentiments, calling Rajgir’s selection as the host city a significant moment for Indian hockey. He noted that the stadium meets international standards and will provide an electrifying atmosphere for players and fans.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh highlighted that bringing the Asia Cup to Rajgir would further boost hockey in Bihar and across India. He acknowledged the rising enthusiasm for the sport in the state and expressed hope that the event would encourage more young players to take up hockey. He thanked the Bihar government for its unwavering support and expressed confidence in the successful execution of the tournament.
