Hockey India on Thursday released the official promo for the upcoming Hero Hockey India League (HIL) season. The campaign introduces a bold new brand line: “Big. Is. Back.” It signals the league’s plan to grow in ambition, creativity, and fan engagement. The refreshed identity aims to bring back HIL with a cinematic and energetic feel.
Creative Shift to Re-energise Hockey Fans
The promo celebrates hockey’s speed, power, and athleticism. It also highlights the emotional and cultural bond the sport shares with fans across India. The campaign rollout spans several platforms and markets to ensure strong visibility at every major fan touchpoint.
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Strong Comeback in 2024
HIL made a powerful return in 2024. Support from Prasar Bharati and Sony Sports Network helped the league reach 40.8 million viewers, which was 48% higher than the 2017 season. The men’s final attracted 3.07 million viewers, while the most-watched women’s match recorded 2.92 million.
Internationally, HIL expanded to over 5 million viewers across 18 hockey-playing nations on TV and OTT platforms. On social media, the league crossed 1 billion views on Facebook, Instagram, and X, with more than 3,000 content pieces.
Campaign Built for Maximum Impact
The new season’s marketing strategy uses a complete 360-degree approach to make HIL impossible to miss. Animated films bring each franchise city to life. Massive outdoor displays build excitement across India. Radio, television, and OTT platforms increase reach. Meanwhile, a renewed social media plan focuses on daily stories, behind-the-scenes clips, player features, reel-first content, and influencer-driven conversations.
Leadership Voices Support the New Direction
Hero Hockey India League Governing Committee Chairperson Dr. Dilip Tirkey said, “With the launch of the promo today, the countdown for the new season of the Hero Hockey India League has officially begun, and it will be bigger than ever. HIL has played a crucial role in the growth of Indian hockey, and it means a great deal to both players and fans. With this strong marketing push, we aim to take hockey to more people and inspire the next generation.”
Governing Committee Member Shri Bhola Nath Singh added, “Our aim is to ensure that HIL’s return is big, exciting, and easy for fans to connect with. This campaign brings fresh energy to the sport and promises an experience that supporters will genuinely enjoy. The excitement around the league is building once again, and we are ready for it.”
New Season Focuses on Scale and Innovation
The league is entering the new season with a commitment to scale, innovation, and emotion. It aims to take hockey deeper into the country and place the sport firmly at the center of India’s sporting culture.
Tournament Schedule
The Women’s League will take place in Ranchi from 28 December 2025 to 10 January 2026. The Men’s League will be held from 3 to 26 January 2026 in Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar.