The Indian men’s and women’s hockey teams will wear saffron jerseys instead of their traditional blue kits at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, a decision that has sparked debate after former India captain Viren Rasquinha questioned the change.
The tournament will be held in the Netherlands and Belgium from August 15 to August 30.
Hockey India explains new design
Unveiling the new jersey on social media, Hockey India said the saffron kit was inspired by the Indian national flag and the rising sun, symbolising courage, sacrifice, victory and new beginnings.
The federation said the jersey tells “India’s story” and reflects national pride.
The design also features Mandala-inspired patterns representing India’s cultural heritage, while navy blue accents are inspired by the Ashoka Chakra, symbolising progress, peace and focus.
According to Hockey India, the chest graphic is a modern interpretation of the Sudarshan Chakra, representing “strength, unity and momentum.”
The jersey also includes tricolour piping along the shoulders and sides, while “INDIA” is written on the front in a stylised Devanagari-inspired script to celebrate the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
Hockey India said the new design embodies the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Along with the saffron jersey, both teams will also have a white alternate kit featuring the same design.
Viren Rasquinha questions change
Former India captain Viren Rasquinha criticised the decision, saying the blue jersey has long been part of Indian hockey’s identity.
“I must say that Hockey India has done many good things, but this is embarrassing. The legacy and identity of the Indian team has always been BLUE. I wore the blue jersey with pride for many years. Fans want to see our Indian team in blue. What is the logic of orange?” Rasquinha wrote on X.
He later added, “My simple and humble point is on pride, identity and legacy.”
Hockey India defends decision
Responding to the criticism, a senior Hockey India official said there was nothing political about choosing saffron as the primary jersey.
“There is nothing political about it. What’s wrong in saffron being the first jersey? Saffron is part of our tricolour. Besides, change is always welcome,” the official told PTI.
The federation also cited practical reasons for the change, saying blue jerseys on blue hockey turfs create visibility issues for spectators and television viewers.
“It creates low contrast, where players blend into the pitch. Wearing a blue jersey on a blue turf can make it difficult for viewers to track players,” the official said.
The new kit will make its debut when India begins its campaign at the FIH Hockey World Cup next month.
