The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has formally apologized to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) following the incorrect display of the national flag during FIH Hockey Pro League match against India in London on Tuesday.
In a letter addressed to PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, FIH Hockey Pro League Director Hilary Atkinson expressed sincere regret over the incident and acknowledged the importance of a national flag as a symbol of identity, pride, and representation.
“We apologise unreservedly for this error. We understand that a team’s flag is an important symbol of identity, pride and representation and we deeply regret any offence this may have caused to your team, supporters, people and National Federation,” the letter stated.
The FIH accepted full responsibility for what it described as an operational mistake and assured the PHF that its procedures would be reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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The federation also appreciated Pakistan’s participation in the Hockey Pro League and reaffirmed its commitment to treating all participating teams with respect and professionalism.
Earlier, India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 to keep the Green Shirts winless in the tournament.
The defeat marked Pakistan’s 13th consecutive loss in the tournament and extended India’s unbeaten run against the Green Shirts since 2016. Pakistan last defeated India at a competitive hockey game in 2016.
Moreover, the loss marked Pakistan’s 13th consecutive loss in the Pro League.
READ: India beat Pakistan in FIH Hockey Pro League to extend unbeaten run
