HIL 2025–26: Free tickets announced as league returns across 3 cities

Tickets for the upcoming men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025–26, scheduled to begin in Chennai on January 3, went live on Thursday, with Hockey India announcing free entry to encourage greater fan participation.

HIL 2025–26 schedule across three cities

This season’s HIL will feature eight men’s teams and four women’s teams, with the men’s team playing matches across three cities of Chennai, Bhubaneswar and Ranchi and the women’s team matches to be held in Ranchi only. Ticket sales for the Ranchi leg of the men’s league had already opened earlier this week.

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The women’s HIL will start from December 28 in Ranchi, and conclude on January 10 and the men’s league will run from January 3 in Chennai before moving to Ranchi on January 11, with the final leg set to be held in Bhubaneswar from January 17 to January 26.

‘A month-long celebration of hockey’: Officials

Dilip Tirkey, Hockey India League governing committee chairperson, said that the decision to offer free tickets across venues was aimed at filling stadiums and bringing fans closer to the sport. “We want fans to come and enjoy world-class hockey and watch their favourite stars in action across Chennai, Ranchi and Bhubaneswar,” he said, adding that several top international players will feature this season.

Holding similar views, HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh described the league as a “month-long celebration of hockey” and invited fans to be part of #HockeyKaJashn, expressing hope for packed stadiums throughout the tournament.

Rani Rampal’s new chapter at HIL

Adding to the significance of the upcoming edition, former India women’s hockey team captain Rani Rampal will feature as a coach at HIL 2026, having transitioned from being a player as spoken about in an exclusive interaction with IANS.

Rani also reflected on working alongside long-time teammate Savita Punia, who will take on a mentor’s role, calling the experience both comforting and inspiring. Moving to the sidelines from the pitch, Rampal’s journey reflects a broader shift in Indian hockey, where experience and legacy are increasingly shaping the future of the HIL.