New Delhi, July 31, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey has questioned the decision to change the Indian men’s hockey team’s traditional blue jersey colour to saffron for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup, stating that the move was implemented without consultation with the organisation’s Executive Board or his prior knowledge.
In emails sent to senior office-bearers and Executive Board members, Tirkey said the decision should have been discussed with the elected leadership before being finalised, given its significance in representing the national team.
“My concern is not with the choice of saffron itself. However, a decision of this significance, involving the identity and representation of our national team, should ideally have been discussed with the elected leadership and the Executive Board before implementation,” Tirkey wrote.
He clarified that his objection was related to the decision-making process rather than the new colour itself.
Tirkey said the jersey change had attracted considerable media attention and political debate, but maintained that it was a sporting decision. He said he had publicly clarified the matter to ensure that attention remained on the team’s preparations for the World Cup.
The issue has also drawn criticism from former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who has played a key role in promoting Odisha as a sponsor of Indian hockey. Patnaik alleged that changing the jersey colour of a national sporting symbol could lead to politicisation.
Tirkey further said the Odisha government had sought clarification on the matter and requested Hockey India officials to provide details about the basis of the decision, the approval process and the circumstances under which the change was implemented.
He stressed the need for transparency and accountability, saying major decisions concerning the national team should involve proper consultation with the elected leadership and Executive Board.
In a separate communication, Hockey India Executive Director Commander R.K. Srivastava, acting on Tirkey’s direction, asked officials to circulate a detailed note on the jersey change to all Executive Board members by 5 p.m. on July 31.
The note seeks details on the rationale behind the colour change, the authority under which the decision was taken, the process followed, the individuals or committees involved, and whether consultations were held with the president, board members, players, coaches, former internationals or other stakeholders.
It also seeks an explanation on why the president and Executive Board were not informed or consulted before the announcement was made.
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