Indian Hockey Teams Adopt Traditional Blue Jersey for Asian Games

The Indian hockey teams have announced their decision to return to their traditional blue jerseys for the upcoming Asian Games, following widespread criticism regarding a previous switch to saffron. Hockey India faced backlash after opting for saffron kits during recent FIH World Cups held in the Netherlands and Belgium.

The move had triggered significant internal conflict within Hockey India. Dilip Tirkey, the president of Hockey India, publicly expressed discontent, revealing that the colour change was executed without the elected leadership and Executive Board's approval. "The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had given us options regarding the team kit colours and Hockey India selected blue as the first choice for the Indian team's kit. Orange will be the second choice," he clarified.

The 20th Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026. The Indian men's team enters the tournament as the defending champions, having emerged victorious against Japan at the previous Asian Games in Hangzhou. The return to the blue jersey marks a commitment to tradition amid evolving discussions within the sport's governance in India.