The International Hockey Federation has withdrawn hosting of the Olympics qualifying round from Pakistan due to differences in Pakistan Hokey Federation (PHF), reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Tuesday.

The FIH has informed Pakistan Hockey Federation about the decision through a letter.

Sources said that Pakistan Sports Board's interference in the affairs of PHF was also one of the reasons of FIH decision.

Sources further said that continual criticism on the hockey federation by former Olympians also dealt a blow to the hosting.

FIH, giving reason of its decision wrote in letter that due to uncertainty in and around PHF withdrawing hosting and currently, PHF is not in a position to host these events.

It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan was hosting the Olympics qualifying round for the first time.

Eight foreign teams were to participate in the qualifying round.

Olympics hockey qualifying round was to be held from 13 to 21 January 2024 in Lahore.

Reportedly, a few days ago, Pakistan Sports Board had suspended all PHF officials in the light of the recommendations of the former Prime Minister.

Reporter Muhammad Hammad