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The international Hockey Federation on Friday condemned the flotation of World Series Hockey (WSH) and stated that the tournament is an unsanctioned event from the part of the World’s game governing body. It also stated that the players participating in the WSH will be allowed only if their respective national federations do not have any other programmes during the tournament.
“Following various recent reports in the media, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) would like to reiterate its position on the proposed World Series Hockey event which is being developed by the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) in conjunction with Nimbus Sport,” a statement from FIH said late night on Friday.
FIH made it clear once again that WSH is floated by IHF, which is not a recognized body. “The Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) is not recognized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) as the governing body for the sport in India. The IHF has not been recognized by the FIH since 2000. Instead the FIH recognizes Hockey India as the sole national governing body for hockey in India.”
“Regarding player participation in the tournament, athletes that signed contracts with World Series Hockey before 31st March 2011 could, subject to them, having no other contractual or national obligations with their respective National Associations, play in the League.”
The statement further reads, “The FIH would like to restate that it has not changed its position on World Series Hockey. It remains an unsanctioned event as per the FIH Statutes and Bye-Laws.”
“The FIH believes that announcements such as those made regarding World Series Hockey are not in the best interest of the sport and will surely not be conducive to finding a long term solution,” the statement concludes.
