Oman, France and Switzerland Arrive in Chennai Ahead of FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025
The excitement surrounding the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 intensified on Sunday as Oman, France and Switzerland arrived in Chennai ahead of the tournament scheduled from November 28 to December 10. With 24 teams competing, this edition becomes the largest Junior World Cup in history, and the arrival of three more squads has added to the anticipation across Chennai and Madurai — the two host cities.
Background
Oman will make their first-ever appearance at the Junior World Cup — a landmark moment for the country’s hockey development. The team has been drawn into Pool B alongside India, Switzerland and Chile, and will open their campaign against Switzerland on November 28. Coach Mohammed Bait Jandal expressed pride and realism, stating that the squad looks forward to learning from stronger opponents, particularly India, a nation they admire and closely follow in major tournaments.
France, meanwhile, arrives as a top contender. With podium finishes in the last three editions — runners-up in 2013 and 2023, and third place in 2021 — the French junior side has cemented its reputation as a powerhouse. Placed in Pool F with Australia, Bangladesh and Korea, France will begin their journey against Korea on November 29. Coach Matthias Dierckens acknowledged that the squad is younger this time, but remains confident in their ability to challenge for the title.
Industry Buzz
Switzerland also enters the tournament as a debutant, ready to showcase its growth on the global stage. Drawn into Pool B, the team will face Oman in its opening match. Coach Jair Levie called the experience “historic,” emphasising that competing in India — especially against the host nation — is a dream moment for several players.
The arrival of these teams follows the entry of earlier squads and signals the rapidly building energy ahead of what FIH describes as a historic edition for junior hockey. With fans, athletes and officials converging from around the world, Chennai is preparing for an international sporting atmosphere unlike any before.
What’s Next
Training sessions, acclimatisation routines and strategy preparations begin immediately as teams settle in. The opening matches are expected to draw massive crowds, especially with India grouped alongside two debutant teams in Pool B.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The arrival of Oman, France and Switzerland signals the growing global enthusiasm surrounding this year’s Junior World Cup. With debutants eager to prove themselves and former finalists aiming higher, the tournament promises a thrilling balance of fresh narratives and established dominance. India’s pool now becomes one of the most intriguing, featuring contrasting hockey cultures and competitive expectations. Beyond results, the event showcases how the sport continues to expand into new regions, inspiring young athletes and strengthening international exchange. As Chennai prepares to host the world, this edition stands poised to elevate junior hockey to unprecedented visibility and significance.