New Delhi
India’s men’s, women’s and U20 boys’ ice hockey teams will compete in the 2027 IIHF World Championship pathway, marking a major milestone for the sport in the country, the national federation announced on Friday.
All three Indian teams have been placed in Division IV of the championship structure organised by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). The competition system serves as the main global framework for international ice hockey, with nations progressing through divisions based on performance.
India has been a full member of the IIHF since 1989, but participation across all three categories in the world championship pathway simultaneously is being viewed as a landmark moment for Indian ice hockey.
The development comes amid growing momentum for the sport in India through national tournaments, state-level participation, player development programmes and greater visibility for winter sports.
The 2025 National Ice Hockey Championship, held at the Himadri Ice Rink — India’s only Olympic-size indoor ice rink — featured competitions in men’s, women’s and youth categories.
India’s women’s team also achieved a significant milestone earlier this year by winning bronze at the 2025 IIHF Women's Asia Cup in Al Ain, UAE.
The inclusion of the U20 boys’ team in the world championship pathway is expected to provide young players with a clearer route into the senior national setup.
Gurpreet Singh Bakshi, president of the Ice Hockey Association of India, described the achievement as a historic step for Indian winter sports.
“This is a historic moment for Indian ice hockey and a proud step for winter sports in India,” he said, adding that participation in the world championships would give Indian players an important global platform.
IHAI secretary general Harjinder Singh said the focus would now shift towards preparation and player development to help India make the most of the opportunity.
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The 2027 IIHF World Championship is scheduled to be held in Düsseldorf and Mannheim from May 14 to 30, 2027.
