Mohsin Naqvi Praises Tayyab Ikram’s Re-election as FIH President: A Milestone for Pakistan’s Hockey

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed immense pride and congratulated Tayyab Ikram on his re-election as President of the International Hockey Federation (FIH). Naqvi described this victory as a remarkable achievement for both Pakistani hockey and the sport on a global scale. The re-election marks a significant milestone, reflecting Ikram’s contributions to hockey development worldwide.

Tayyab Ikram’s Unopposed Re-election as FIH President

Tayyab Ikram, a Lahore-based hockey leader, was re-elected as the president of the International Hockey Federation (IHF) for a historic eight-year term. The election was held at the FIH Congress in Muscat, Oman, on November 9, 2024. Ikram, who had been serving as the acting president for two years after the resignation of former president Narinder Batra, was the sole candidate, and his re-election was confirmed without any opposition.

The extension of his presidency from the initially planned four-year term to an eight-year term is a testament to his influence and the trust he has earned in the global hockey community. With no competing candidates for the position, his unanimous election highlights the high regard for Ikram’s leadership.

FIH Congress in Muscat: Key Highlights of the Election

The official announcement of Ikram’s re-election was made during the 49th FIH Congress. His term as president will now last until 2035, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the history of international hockey. Ikram’s victory underscores his pivotal role in shaping the future of the sport, not only in Pakistan but also around the globe.

Ikram’s Leadership and Vision for Global Hockey

Following his re-election, Tayyab Ikram expressed his pride in leading the global hockey community. He emphasized that the opportunity to further contribute to the growth of the sport was a significant privilege. “It is a great honor to be re-appointed as president of the world of hockey. I now have the opportunity to contribute even more, and I will do everything I can to advance the sport of hockey,” Ikram stated in his post-election remarks.

Ikram’s leadership has been instrumental in driving global hockey development and strengthening the international presence of the sport. His vision includes promoting hockey at grassroots levels, increasing participation, and improving infrastructure for athletes worldwide.

A Look at Ikram’s Previous Victory

Ikram’s re-election follows his successful bid in 2022, when he was first elected FIH President after Narinder Batra’s resignation. Ikram defeated Belgium’s Marc Coudron in a tight race, securing 79 votes compared to Coudron’s 47. His previous term set the stage for his continued leadership in the global hockey community.

Pakistan’s Pride: Mohsin Naqvi’s Message

Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), took to social media to congratulate Tayyab Ikram on his re-election. Naqvi praised Ikram’s remarkable contributions to promoting hockey on the world stage, calling his victory an “honour for Pakistan.” This achievement marks an important moment in Pakistan’s sporting history, as it reinforces the nation’s role as a key player in the global hockey scene.

What’s Next for FIH and the Global Hockey Community?

The re-election of Tayyab Ikram signals the continued growth of international hockey. As President, Ikram will work closely with national associations and stakeholders to ensure the sport’s development, particularly in emerging regions. The FIH Congress also saw other key elections, including the contest for the two FIH Ordinary Executive Board Member female positions, with candidates like Danae Andrada Barrios from Uruguay, Katrin Kauschke from Germany, and Hazel Kennedy from Zambia.

Pakistan’s Role in the Future of Hockey

With Ikram at the helm, Pakistan’s influence in international hockey is set to grow. His re-election brings attention not only to his leadership skills but also to Pakistan’s rich hockey heritage. His continued presidency promises further opportunities for Pakistani athletes, coaches, and fans to engage with the global hockey community.

Key Takeaways:

• Tayyab Ikram has been re-elected as President of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for an eight-year term.
• His leadership extends from 2022, following the resignation of Narinder Batra.
• The election took place at the 49th FIH Congress in Muscat, Oman, and was confirmed with no opposition.
• Mohsin Naqvi, PCB Chairman, congratulated Ikram, highlighting this as a significant achievement for Pakistan’s hockey.

Here are some MCQs based on the article:

1. Where was Tayyab Ikram re-elected as the President of the International Hockey Federation (FIH)?

A) Paris, France
B) Muscat, Oman
C) New York, USA
D) Lahore, Pakistan

2. How long will Tayyab Ikram’s new term as FIH President last?

A) 4 years
B) 5 years
C) 6 years
D) 8 years

3. Who congratulated Tayyab Ikram on his re-election, calling it an honor for Pakistan’s hockey?

A) Indian Hockey Federation President
B) Pakistan Prime Minister
C) Mohsin Naqvi, PCB Chairman
D) Former FIH President Narinder Batra

4. What significant event took place during the 49th FIH Congress in Muscat, Oman?

A) Launch of a new global hockey initiative
B) Tayyab Ikram’s re-election as FIH President
C) Introduction of new hockey rules
D) Appointment of a new Secretary General for FIH

5. Which of the following statements about Tayyab Ikram’s election is true?

A) He faced competition from other candidates in the election
B) His term was extended from four years to eight years
C) His presidency was contested by multiple countries
D) He was elected as FIH President for the first time in 2024

6. What was the result of Tayyab Ikram’s first election as FIH President in 2022?

A) He was elected unanimously
B) He defeated Belgium’s Marc Coudron
C) He won by a narrow margin
D) He was elected after a second-round vote

7. What did Tayyab Ikram express after his re-election as FIH President?

A) A desire to retire from hockey
B) His commitment to advance the sport of hockey
C) A need for more government funding
D) His plan to leave FIH in the coming years

8. How many candidates were there for the FIH President post during the 2024 election?

A) Two
B) Three
C) One
D) None

9. Which of the following countries had a candidate running for the FIH Ordinary Executive Board Member female position in 2024?

A) Uruguay
B) Canada
C) Japan
D) Egypt

10. What is the role of Mohsin Naqvi, who praised Ikram’s re-election?

A) Chairman of the Pakistan Hockey Federation
B) Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)
C) President of the International Hockey Federation
D) Coach of the Pakistani national hockey team