HOCKEY INDIA (HI) will reduce franchise fees for the next season of the Hockey India League (HIL) in a bid to lessen the financial strain on team owners, HI president Dilip Tirkey has confirmed.
Speaking after the conclusion of the second edition of the revived HIL in Bhubaneswar, Tirkey acknowledged that ensuring the league’s long-term financial sustainability would be a key priority, particularly after some franchises withdrew ahead of the 2025–26 season.
“We need to pay more attention to the central sponsorship. We need the help of the Government. Whether it is a league or a tournament, without the Government’s support, it cannot be a grand success. We are also taking help from the corporate sector,” Tirkey said.
While ruling out a complete waiver, Tirkey confirmed that franchise fees would be recalibrated, adding that there has already been ownership interest from Gujarat and Odisha.
Tirkey also conceded that the league needs stronger promotion. Although Bhubaneswar delivered healthy crowds, attendance in Chennai and Ranchi fell short of expectations. As a result, HI is considering shifting the league to north India next season. “Because of fog, flights can be delayed. That is why we did not choose north India. We will take it to north India next year – Delhi or Chandigarh. But we will keep it restricted to two or three venues,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Tirkey expressed satisfaction with the quality of hockey on display and the emergence of young Indian talent. “The quality of the league is getting better. A lot of young Indian players are coming up. They will get a chance in the FIH Pro League (in the run-up to the World Cup and Asian Games). We will make it the best league in the world,” said Tirkey.
