The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has apologised to the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) on Tuesday after organisers displayed an incorrect version of the Pakistan national flag before the two countries’ FIH Pro League fixture at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London.
As the two teams lined up for their national anthems before the match, the flag presented in front of the Pakistan side was missing its distinctive white strip, which represents the country’s minorities. The error drew widespread criticism on social media and overshadowed the fixture, which India won 4-3.
Minutes after the final whistle, FIH Pro League Director Hilary Atkinson wrote to PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, taking full responsibility for the mistake.
“I would like to sincerely apologise for the incorrect display of your team’s flag during the FIH Hockey Pro League match this afternoon in London, England,” the letter read.
“We apologise unreservedly for this error. We understand that a team’s flag is an important symbol of identity, pride, and representation and we deeply regret any offence this may have caused to your team, supporters, people and National Federation. We take full responsibility for this operational mistake and will be reviewing our processes to ensure that similar errors do not occur in the future,” it added.
Atkinson urged the PHF president to accept the apology, appreciated Pakistan’s participation in the Pro League and reaffirmed the FIH’s commitment to all participating nations.
“Please accept our sincere apologies for this incident. We greatly value your participation in FIH Hockey Pro League as has been shown by the commitment to support your team through the season and we appreciate your understanding. We remain committed to treating all teams with the respect and professionalism they deserve. Should you wish to discuss this matter further, please do not hesitate to contact us,” the letter read.
It is worth noting that the 4-3 defeat at the hands of India extended Pakistan’s losing streak to 13 matches and also relegated the side from the next edition of the FIH Pro League.
