FIH Looks to Grow Appeal of Hockey with Format Changes

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) have announced today major format changes to the sport which they hope will expand the appeal of hockey worldwide. 

From September 1, sale sale major FIH events such as the Champions Trophy, Hockey World League Final and Rio 2016 Olympic Games will assume a new format that includes moving to four 15-minute quarters and having 40-second time-outs when a penalty corner is awarded and after a goal is scored. The new system replaces the traditional two 35 minute halves.

Leandro Negre, President of FIH, said: “The decision demonstrates our commitment to fan engagement. With the additional breaks, fans will have the opportunity to enjoy more replays and be more engaged with the event, whether in the stadium or watching from a far, while hockey commentators will be allowed more time to provide sport analysis between plays.

Overall game time will move from 70 minutes to a 60-minute game with four 15-minute quarters.

The new format has already been tried out in the Euro Hockey League and in India.

Listen to FIH CEO Kelly Fairweather talk exclusively to iSportconnect about the changes

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