Hero Hockey India League Marks Triumphant Return with Record Viewership and Historic Women’s League Debut

The return of the Hero Hockey India League (HIL) has reignited the nation’s passion for hockey, marking a historic chapter in Indian sports with record-breaking viewership and the introduction of the inaugural women’s league. This edition, held during the centenary celebrations of Indian hockey and following consecutive Olympic medal wins, has reinforced India’s growing dominance in the sport.

After a seven-year hiatus, Hero HIL 2024–25 exceeded expectations, achieving a cumulative reach of over 40.8 million viewers—a remarkable 48% increase from the 2017 edition’s viewership of 27.5 million. The men’s final alone drew 3.07 million viewers, while the most-watched women’s match garnered 2.92 million viewers.

The league also made significant strides in gender parity, a rare feat in Indian sports. With 44 men’s matches reaching 32.9 million viewers (23.5 million via TV and 9.4 million on OTT) and 13 women’s matches attracting 15.1 million viewers (10.5 million on TV and 4.59 million via OTT), the women’s league emerged as a game-changer in terms of inclusivity and attention.

Adding to its global footprint, Hero HIL reached over 5 million viewers across 18 hockey-playing nations outside India, through a combination of television and OTT platforms.

Speaking on the league’s phenomenal success, Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey said, “The success of Hero HIL 2024–25 is a testament to India’s deep-rooted love for hockey. The overwhelming response from fans, brands, and broadcasters reflects the league’s immense potential. Our commitment remains steadfast in elevating Indian hockey to new heights.”

Beyond broadcast, the league also witnessed a digital revolution. Hockey India’s social media platforms garnered over 1 billion views across Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, with more than 3,000 posts contributing to a dynamic and engaged hockey community.

Expressing his delight, Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh added, “The revival of Hero HIL has been a monumental success, reigniting enthusiasm among fans and players alike. The women’s league is a crucial step toward inclusivity and empowerment in Indian sports.”

Since the Tokyo Olympics, hockey has seen a steady rise in popularity, accounting for 15.2% of the 69 million viewers in the first week of Olympic coverage. Hero HIL’s resurgence continues this upward trajectory, positioning hockey once again at the forefront of India’s sporting landscape.

With its stellar return, inclusive vision, and exceptional digital and global reach, Hero Hockey India League has not only revived a cherished tradition but also laid the foundation for a more equitable and expansive future for Indian hockey.