Whistle of Glory: Raghu Prasad Named International Hockey Federation (FIH) Umpire of the Year 2025

In global sport, players often shine the brightest. But sometimes, it is the silent guardians of the game, the umpires, who create history. One such inspiring figure is Raghu Prasad, the Bengaluru-born umpire named the FIH Male Umpire of the Year 2025. With this, he not only brings pride to India but also becomes a model of consistency, humility, and unwavering dedication for hopeful officials around the world.A Recognition 23 Years in the MakingThe International Hockey Federation (FIH) described the award as a recognition of Prasad’s “consistency, resilience, and excellence” throughout a remarkable 23-year international career. In an Olympic and World Cup cycle, the title is typically given to the umpire with the highest level of performance. But in 2025 a non-Olympic, non-World Cup year, the award also honors broad, long-term contributions. And Prasad has contributed more than most. By next week, he will become the first Asian umpire to officiate in 200 international matches, reaching the milestone at the 2025 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia. For India, this achievement is a historic moment; for Prasad, it is a deeply emotional one.The Boy from Bengaluru Who Dreamed Beyond ExpectationsBorn in 1978 in Karnataka’s capital, Prasad grew up like many Indian children with cricket dominating the imaginations of parents. In fact, his own parents hoped he would pick up the bat, not the stick. But a young Prasad found joy in hockey when he first played the sport in Class 6. His early hockey days were shaped at the Bharat Electronics Limited Colony Youth Association, sharing the field with future India star Sandeep Michael. His first coach, Prakash VR, helped lay the foundation of discipline and understanding of the sport qualities that would later define him as an umpire. He pursued engineering and even had the option of a civil aviation career. Yet something about the rhythm of hockey fields drew him back. He chose the whistle, not the wings—a choice that changed Indian umpiring forever.The Rise of an Umpiring IconPrasad’s umpiring journey began in 1999 with the Karnataka State Hockey Association (KSHA). His mentor, Kannan Krishnamurthy, a former international umpire himself, guided him through the early challenges. In 2001, he cleared the Indian Hockey Federation’s national grade umpire test. Just two years later, at age 24, he made his international debut at the Hockey Australia Challenge Cup—a four-nation tournament where his first match was the high-pressure Pakistan vs. Australia encounter. Nervous at first, he calmed down with guidance from umpires’ manager Don Prior, who recognized his talent early.From there, Prasad’s career soared: four Senior World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, 2023) , three Olympic Games (2012 London, 2020 Tokyo, 2024 Paris) , reserve for Rio 2016 , two Asian Games (2018, 2022) , one Commonwealth Games (2014), FIH Pro League, Junior World Cups, Asia Cups, and Asian Champions Trophies. He entered the prestigious FIH World Development Panel in 2009, fast-tracking him to global assignments. He later became the third Indian to complete 100 senior caps, following Satinder Kumar and Javed Shaikh. Today, he stands at 198 international matches and 33 video umpiring appointments, with history waiting just around the corner.Why Raghu Prasad Stands OutThe FIH praised Raghu Prasad for three qualities that truly set him apart. First is his exceptional fitness. Hockey is one of the fastest sports in the world, and an umpire must run almost as much as the players. Prasad has maintained top-level fitness for more than 20 years, proving his discipline and dedication. Second is his sharp and fair decision-making. Matches move at lightning speed, but Prasad has the ability to read the game clearly and make confident calls that earn trust from both teams. And finally, his leadership and humility make him special. He stays calm even in tense moments, speaks politely, and handles pressure with grace. This gentle but firm approach has made him a respected figure and a true role model for young umpires everywhere.How to Become an FIH Umpire: Inspired by Prasad’s PathFor aspiring umpires, Raghu Prasad’s journey offers both motivation and a clear roadmap. Everything begins with joining your national hockey association and gaining early experience by officiating school, college and club matches. Once you’re active at the local level, the next step is completing the FIH Foundation Level Certificate, which combines online modules and in-person workshops covering rules, game theory and the responsibilities of an official. After this, umpires can move into advanced FIH courses to sharpen their skills further. Consistent on-field experience is crucial, as regular officiating in competitive state and national tournaments builds the confidence and knowledge needed for higher levels. When an umpire begins to show potential, their national association, along with the continental federation, can nominate them for international consideration. Finally, to step onto the global stage, one must meet FIH’s standards in English communication, fitness, and overall performance. This pathway, while demanding, is proof that with dedication, any young umpire can dream of following in Prasad’s footsteps.A Legacy That Will Inspire GenerationsAs Raghu Prasad prepares for his 200th international appearance, he carries with him the dreams of countless young umpires from India and across Asia. His journey from school-level matches in Bengaluru to Olympic stadiums packed with tens of thousands reminds us that greatness is not born overnight. It is built decision by decision, day by day. And that is why his historic recognition as FIH Male Umpire of the Year 2025 is not just an award. It is a celebration of an extraordinary life dedicated to the spirit of sport.