FIH issues unconditional apology to Pakistan over incorrect flag display

ISLAMABAD: The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has issued an unconditional apology to the Pakistan Hockey Federation after Pakistan’s national flag was incorrectly displayed before a Pro League match against India in London.

In a letter addressed to Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani, FIH Pro League Director Hilary Atkinson expressed deep regret over the incident, which occurred during the national anthem ceremony before the match. The Pakistani flag displayed at the venue omitted the white stripe, an integral part of the country’s national flag.

Atkinson said a national flag represents a team’s identity, pride and heritage, and acknowledged that the error had caused distress to the Pakistan team, its supporters, the Pakistani public and the Pakistan Hockey Federation.

She accepted full responsibility for the incident, describing it as an administrative error, and offered an unconditional apology.

“At the FIH, we deeply regret the mistake and the hurt it caused,” the letter said.

Atkinson said the organization would conduct a comprehensive review of its administrative and operational procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that the identity and dignity of participating nations are properly respected.

The FIH also praised the Pakistan Hockey Federation and the national team for their participation in the Pro League, saying that maintaining professionalism and respect toward all teams remains one of its top priorities.

The incident sparked criticism on social media and within hockey circles, with many questioning how such a mistake went unnoticed at an international event. Some critics also questioned why Pakistan’s team management failed to identify the error before the ceremony began.