The International Hockey Federation (FIH), founded in 1924, is the global governing body for the sport of field hockey. The FIH aims to promote, develop, and govern field hockey worldwide, ensuring that the sport is played in adherence to fair play principles, rules, and regulations. It serves as the ultimate authority for international field hockey competitions and the establishment of harmonized norms and standards for the game.
The FIH is responsible for organizing major field hockey events on a global scale, including the Hockey World Cup, Champions Trophy, FIH Pro League, and continental championships. It governs the participation, qualification, and conduct of national teams, players, and officials in these competitions, fostering a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among nations.
Functioning as the custodian of the rules of hockey, the FIH oversees the development of the game's regulations, modifications, and amendments to ensure the sport's universality and continuous evolution. In addition, the federation establishes a system to protect the integrity of field hockey, promoting fair and transparent practices while combating any form of corruption, doping, or other malfeasance.
Through the FIH Academy, the organization provides comprehensive training, education, and certification programs for coaches, umpires, technical officials, and administrators. It also spearheads initiatives to expand the reach of field hockey, particularly in developing nations, by providing guidance, support, and resources to member associations and federations around the world.
Overall, the International Hockey Federation acts as the primary authority for field hockey globally, overseeing its growth, development, and governance while striving to uphold the values of the sport.
