Rajgir to Host Hero Asia Cup 2025, Marking a Milestone for Bihar’s Sports Infrastructure

Rajgir, the historic city in Bihar, is set to host the prestigious Hero Asia Cup Rajgir, Bihar 2025 following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Hockey India and the Bihar State Sports Authority. The tournament will take place from 29th August to 7th September at the newly developed Rajgir Hockey Stadium, signaling a significant step forward in India’s sports infrastructure and Bihar’s rise as a global sporting hub.

This event will mark Rajgir’s second international sporting event, following the success of the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November 2024, where India emerged victorious. The Hero Asia Cup 2025 is set to be the 12th edition of the continental tournament, featuring eight teams, including India, Pakistan, Japan, Korea, China, and Malaysia. The remaining two spots will be decided through the AHF Cup qualification tournament.

South Korea, the most successful team in Men’s Asia Cup history with five titles (1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022), will look to defend its dominance, with India (2003, 2007, 2017) and Pakistan (1982, 1985, 1989) each having won three times.

The Hero Asia Cup Rajgir, Bihar 2025 will also serve as a qualifying event for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, to be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. The winner of the tournament will secure a place in the World Cup, making the competition even more intense and highly anticipated.

Dr. B Rajendra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Department of Sports, Bihar, expressed his pride in hosting the event, stating, “This MoU signing marks a major milestone in Bihar’s journey towards becoming a top sporting destination. Hosting the Hero Asia Cup 2025 is a proud moment, and we are committed to delivering a seamless tournament. The Rajgir Hockey Stadium stands as a testament to Bihar’s growing sports infrastructure, and we are eager to welcome top teams from across Asia.”

Dato Fumio Ogura, President of the Asian Hockey Federation, also shared his excitement, saying, “The Hero Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir will be a thrilling event. India has been a key player in the growth of hockey in Asia, and Rajgir’s new infrastructure and hockey culture will ensure a fantastic tournament. With World Cup qualification on the line, we anticipate high-quality matches.”

Hockey India President, Dr. Dilip Tirkey, emphasized the significance of Rajgir hosting the event, noting, “This is a huge step for Indian hockey. The Rajgir Hockey Stadium is of international standards, and the tournament promises to be full of excitement and skill. With World Cup qualification at stake, we expect intense competition.”

Hockey India Secretary General, Shri Bhola Nath Singh, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are excited to bring the Asia Cup to Rajgir. This tournament will showcase the best of Asian hockey and provide a major boost to the sport in India. We look forward to a successful event and thank the local authorities for their tremendous support.”

As Rajgir prepares to host this landmark event, it is poised to not only elevate Bihar’s stature in international sports but also inspire a new generation of hockey players in the region.