India’s Asian Games 2026 hockey mission: Gold, redemption and LA Olympics 2028 qualification

The Asian Games 2026 in Japan will see both men's and women's hockey teams target podium finishes, with Olympic 2028 berths awaiting the champions.

India are set to begin their campaign at the Asian Games 2026, which begins on September 20 (Saturday) in Aichi Nagoya, Japan. This is a big event for the Indian contingent, who will be eyeing to outdo their best-ever tally of 107 medals achieved at the previous edition of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. One of the biggest medal hopes for the country comes in hockey, where both the Indian men's and women's teams will be eyeing a podium finish.

Beyond continental glory, there is another ultimate prize at stake. The winners of the Asian Games 2026 will secure direct qualification for the Olympics 2028 to be held in Los Angeles. Hence, for both the men’s and women’s teams, the objective is crystal clear.

Men’s team: seeking Redemption and defending gold

The Indian men's hockey team heads to Japan as the defending champions, but they arrive with a major point to prove. Following a disappointing eighth-place finish at the recent Men's Hockey World Cup, the squad is looking for redemption.

Despite that recent setback, the team is one of the most formidable forces at the Asian Games under head coach Craig Fulton. Captain Harmanpreet Singh will once again lead from the front, marshalling the defence alongside seasoned campaigner Amit Rohidas.

The midfield will be anchored by the ever-experienced Manpreet Singh, and the forward line features the relentless Mandeep Singh and Abhishek. Hence, the team has firepower across every inch of the pitch. The goalkeeping duties will rest on the capable shoulders of Mohith HS and Suraj Karkera.

Having secured two back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympics in 2020 and 2024, this squad knows how to navigate high-pressure tournaments and remains the heavy favourites to win the gold medal.