Hockey India has replaced the traditional blue national-team jerseys with saffron kits for the men’s and women’s teams.

The shift comes just days before the 2026 [1] FIH World Cup. The change is significant because the blue jersey has long been a primary identifier for Indian national teams across multiple sports, and the move to saffron has triggered a public debate regarding the motives behind the redesign.

Hockey India cited practical reasons for the change. A spokesperson said the traditional blue jersey blended with the blue artificial turf used in international hockey, making it difficult for players to spot teammates during matches.

Beyond visibility, the governing body highlighted the symbolic nature of the new color. A spokesperson said saffron represents courage and the nation’s tricolour.

Despite these explanations, the decision has drawn criticism. Some observers view the choice of saffron as politically charged, leading to a row over the timing and nature of the update. Former captain Viren Rasquinha has also been involved in the discourse surrounding the transition.

Hockey India has denied that the new kit is a political statement. A representative said the body dismisses any political angle behind the change.

The teams will debut the saffron kits during the 2026 [1] World Cup, marking a departure from the aesthetic standard the teams maintained for years.

“"The traditional blue jersey blended with the blue artificial turf... making it difficult for players to spot teammates during matches."”

The transition from blue to saffron reflects a tension between athletic functionality and national symbolism. While Hockey India emphasizes the tactical advantage of visibility on blue turf, the choice of a color with deep cultural and political associations in India ensures the move will be viewed through a sociopolitical lens rather than just a sporting one.