Pro League winners to get direct berths in World Cup, Olympics from 2023-24 season: FIH

New Delhi, Oct 21: International Hockey Federation (FIH) CEO Thierry Weil on Friday (October 21) made a big announcement saying the winners of the FIH Pro League from the 2023-24 season in both men's and women's categories will directly qualify for the 2026 World Cups and 2028 Olympic Games.

"From season 5 and season 6, the winners of the men's and women's Pro League will directly qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The winners of seasons 7 and 8 will get direct entry into the 2028 Olympics," Weil said in virtual interaction.

The FIH CEO ruled out fears that direct qualifications given to Pro League winners will have an impact on continental competitions. "The direct berth to the winners of the continental event will stay as will the direct berth to the World Cup and Olympic Games host country. Two berths in each section will go to Pro League winners and the rest will be awarded through a tournament," said Weil.

Besides, the FIH has also planned major changes in the Pro League as from the fourth edition -- 2022-23 season -- the world body will introduce a relegation and promotion system. The last-placed team at the end of the season in both men's and women's competitions will be relegated to the Nations Cup, while the winners of the Nations Cup will be promoted to the Pro League.

The fourth season of the Pro League, a shortened version to be held in clusters, begins on October 28 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar with hosts India playing New Zealand.

The Black Sticks are set to return to the Pro League after one year due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions. Besides India and New Zealand, Spain is the third team to feature in this window.

"These changes were necessary to cut down the travel of the teams and ensure that the Pro League doesn't affect other international tournaments," Weil said.

(With PTI inputs)