CM Bhagwant Mann Reviews Burlton Park Preparations for Asian Hockey Championship 2026

Punjab is preparing to host the Asian Hockey Championship 2026, returning to major global hockey after about 44 years. The tournament is scheduled for October 2026 at Jalandhar’s historic Burlton Park. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inspected the venue on Thursday and instructed officials that arrangements must not fall short anywhere.

The visit has sparked strong interest among sports followers and young hockey players across Punjab. Burlton Park has already staged several memorable hockey events in the past. Now the stadium is being upgraded again to host an international championship, with authorities aiming to meet modern standards for players, officials, media and visiting fans.

Asian Hockey Championship 2026 preparations and CM Bhagwant Mann’s review

During the inspection, Bhagwant Mann walked through the stadium, checked different sections and interacted with local residents and spectators. Officials briefed Bhagwant Mann on ongoing renovation work, including turf, lighting and seating. The tour also covered dressing rooms, medical facilities and technical areas, which are being planned to match international expectations.

ਅੱਜ ਜਲੰਧਰ ਦੇ ਬਰਲਟਨ ਪਾਰਕ (Burlton Park) ਵਿਖੇ ਪਹੁੰਚ ਕੇ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਵਿੱਚ ਹੋਣ ਜਾ ਰਹੀ ਏਸ਼ੀਅਨ ਹਾਕੀ ਚੈਂਪੀਅਨਸ਼ਿਪ ਦੀਆਂ ਤਿਆਰੀਆਂ ਦਾ ਜਾਇਜ਼ਾ ਲਿਆ। ਟੂਰਨਾਮੈਂਟ ਦੇ ਪ੍ਰਬੰਧ ਬਹੁਤ ਸ਼ਾਨਦਾਰ ਚੱਲ ਰਹੇ ਹਨ ਅਤੇ ਖਿਡਾਰੀਆਂ ਤੇ ਦਰਸ਼ਕਾਂ ਦੀ ਸਹੂਲਤ ਲਈ ਹਰ ਪੁਖ਼ਤਾ ਇੰਤਜ਼ਾਮ ਯਕੀਨੀ ਬਣਾਇਆ ਜਾ ਰਿਹਾ ਹੈ।

ਪੰਜਾਬ ਨੂੰ ਖੇਡਾਂ ਦੇ ਖੇਤਰ ਵਿੱਚ… pic.twitter.com/sYV3I0UoAW

— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) May 28, 2026

Bhagwant Mann later held a detailed review meeting with administrative officers, sports department representatives and young athletes. The discussion focused on current stadium facilities, practice grounds, spectator stands, security plans, parking space, traffic circulation and cleanliness. Every unit was asked to submit timelines, while coordination between departments was stressed to avoid last-minute issues.

Asian Hockey Championship 2026 and Punjab’s hockey legacy

Addressing the gathering, Bhagwant Mann said, "Punjab will use this tournament to show the world its sporting culture, hospitality and passion for hockey. Hockey is the pride of Punjab. We have given the country many leading players. This event is not just a tournament, but a golden chance to present our sporting heritage to the world again." Young players called the event highly motivating.

One emerging player said, "Such a big international tournament taking place at home feels like a dream coming true for us." Many youngsters present at Burlton Park felt the championship could renew interest in hockey at the grassroots. Coaches also hoped the event would encourage more investment in training centres and school-level competitions across districts.

Punjab has long been known as a nursery of Indian hockey, producing legends from Major Dhyan Chand’s era to recent stars. However, major international tournaments have largely stayed away from the state for several decades. Officials believe the return after 44 years will strengthen sports infrastructure and inspire the next generation to pick up the stick.

Bhagwant Mann stated that the government is working to make Punjab a leading sports state. Along with Burlton Park, sports complexes in Mohali are also being upgraded with modern facilities. The government has placed comfort of players and spectators at the top of its agenda, with better infrastructure, improved security and organised hosting as key priorities.

Sports enthusiasts in Jalandhar and nearby areas are keenly awaiting October 2026, when Burlton Park is expected to welcome teams and fans from across Asia. If the preparations stay on track, the Asian Hockey Championship 2026 is set to mark an important moment in Punjab’s sporting journey and offer fresh encouragement to young hockey talent.