HockeyTournament – Air Force Memorial Hockey Championship Returns to Bengaluru
HockeyTournament – The Indian Air Force is set to host the seventh edition of the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament 2026, which will take place from June 23 to July 3 at the Air Force Station in Jalahalli, Bengaluru. The annual event has been organized by the Air Force Sports Control Board (AFSCB) since 2018 and continues to serve as a significant platform for promoting hockey talent across the country.
Tournament Honors a Legendary Air Force Leader
The competition commemorates the legacy of Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh, one of India’s most respected military leaders. Known for his deep admiration for hockey, Arjan Singh encouraged sporting excellence alongside professional commitment within the armed forces. His contribution to fostering sports culture remains an inspiration for generations of air warriors.
According to information released by the government, the Indian Air Force has consistently nurtured athletes who have gone on to represent India in international sporting events. Many of these sportspersons have earned recognition for both the nation and the Air Force through their performances on global platforms.
Sixteen Teams to Compete for the Title
This year’s tournament will feature participation from 16 teams. All matches are scheduled to be played at the Hockey Stadium located within Air Force Station Jalahalli. The championship will follow a league-cum-knockout format, ensuring that teams compete through multiple stages before the title winner is determined.
The tournament has steadily grown in stature over the years and is now considered one of the prominent hockey events organized by the armed forces. It offers players an opportunity to compete at a high level while showcasing their skills before coaches, officials, and hockey enthusiasts.
Senior Air Force Officials to Attend Key Events
Air Marshal S. Sivakumar, VSM, Air Officer-in-Charge Administration, will attend the tournament’s opening ceremony as the chief guest on June 23. He is also scheduled to be present during the press interaction associated with the event.
The closing ceremony, which will take place on July 3, will be presided over by Air Marshal Seethepalli Shrinivas, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Training Command. The presence of senior Air Force leadership reflects the importance placed on sports and athlete development within the organization.
Attractive Prize Pool Announced
Organizers have announced substantial prize money for the participating teams and individual performers. The winning team will receive a cash award of ₹10 lakh, while the runners-up will be awarded ₹8 lakh.
Individual excellence will also be recognized throughout the competition. Every Man of the Match award winner will receive ₹25,000. In addition, the Player of the Tournament will be presented with a cash prize of ₹50,000 for outstanding performance across the championship.
Platform for Sporting Excellence
Beyond the competition itself, the tournament continues to reinforce the Indian Air Force’s commitment to encouraging sports and physical fitness. By providing a professional environment for athletes to compete, the event contributes to the broader development of hockey while honoring the enduring legacy of Marshal Arjan Singh.
As teams prepare to battle for top honors in Bengaluru, the championship is expected to deliver competitive action and highlight emerging talent from across the hockey community.