MUMBAI: The Hero Hockey India League (HIL) has roared back to life after a seven-year hiatus, smashing viewership records and breathing fresh life into the sport. The 2024-25 edition didn't merely return—it revolutionised the game by introducing the first-ever women's league alongside the men's competition, coinciding rather neatly with Indian hockey's centenary celebrations.
The numbers tell a cracking tale: a whopping 40.8 million viewers tuned in overall, rocketing 48 per cent above the 2017 figures. The men's competition captivated 32.9 million fans, while the women's matches—despite featuring fewer games—pulled in an impressive 15.1 million viewers.
In a sporting landscape where women's events typically draw a fraction of male viewership, the HIL has pulled off something of a miracle. At times, the ladies nearly matched their male counterparts in audience figures, with the most-watched women's match drawing 2.92 million viewers against the men's final peak of 3.07 million.
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey remarked, “The success of Hero HIL 2024–25 is a testament to India’s deep-rooted love for hockey. The overwhelming response from fans, brands, and broadcasters reflects the league’s immense potential. As we move forward, our commitment remains steadfast in elevating Indian hockey to new heights, ensuring that the sport gets the recognition and support it truly deserves.”
The digital realm proved equally fruitful, with social media engagement hitting the roof—over a billion views across platforms, turning hockey chat into the hottest ticket in town.
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh stated, “The revival of Hero HIL has been a monumental success, not only in terms of numbers but also in the enthusiasm it has reignited among fans and players alike. This season has proven that hockey continues to hold a special place in India’s sporting culture. The addition of the women’s league is a crucial step towards greater inclusivity and empowerment in sports.”
The triumphant return builds on hockey's Olympic momentum, where it accounted for a juicy 15.2 per cent of early Tokyo Games viewership. With these stellar numbers, it seems the stick-and-ball game isn't just back—it's positively sizzling.
