Hockey India announced a cash reward of ₹50 lakh for the Indian women’s hockey team on 28 August 2026 after its campaign at the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup. The team finished fifth in Amstelveen, Netherlands, on 27 August 2026, which was India’s best World Cup finish in 52 years since the fourth-place result in 1974.
World Cup Format and Classification Matches
The FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup is the premier international tournament for women’s field hockey under the International Hockey Federation. Teams that do not reach the medal rounds play classification matches to determine final positions such as fifth place, sixth place, and lower rankings.
India’s Fifth-Place Play-off Result
India defeated Germany 3-1 in the fifth-place classification match on 27 August 2026. Ishika Chaudhary scored once, Navneet Kaur scored twice, and Germany’s only goal came from Lynn Krings in the 59th minute.
The match remained 0-0 at half-time, and India scored all three of its goals in the third quarter. Germany entered the match as world No. 5, while India secured the fifth-place position in the final standings.
Squad Reward Structure and Team Officials
Hockey India fixed the reward at ₹2 lakh for each player in the squad and ₹1 lakh for each member of the support staff. Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh are the office-bearers associated with the announcement.
Important Facts for Exams
- The FIH stands for the International Hockey Federation, which governs international field hockey.
- India’s fourth-place finish in 1974 remained its best result at the Women’s World Cup until the 2026 campaign.
- Salima Tete captained the Indian women’s hockey team during the 2026 World Cup.
- Amstelveen is a city in the Netherlands and has hosted international hockey events.
Campaign Record and Next Event
India recorded one defeat against the Netherlands during the campaign and drew against China, England, and Australia. The team also registered a 6-1 win over South Africa before turning its attention to the Asian Games.
