Response to SF&OC's Initiation of Suspending HKIHA's Membership

April 4, 2023

The Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC) has initiated the procedure to suspend the membership of the Hong Kong Ice Hockey Association (HKIHA), requiring HKIHA to submit a full written explanation within one month regarding its failure to seriously handle the national anthem misplay incident at the competition in Bosnia, as per SF&OC guidelines. DAB LegCo member Vincent Cheng said SF&OC's approach is appropriate and hopes HKIHA will seriously reflect and submit a reasonable plan to improve its governance.

He said SF&OC already has clear " Guidelines on Handling the Playing of the National Anthem and Raising of the Regional Flag for Hong Kong Athletes and Teams Engaging in International Sports Events." Similar national anthem misplay incidents have occurred before and drew immense public reaction, demonstrating the high expectations and stringent requirements of the public for sports associations leading athletes to compete internationally.

He added that, with the premise of not affecting the athletes, he hopes HKIHA will treasure this opportunity to explain how it can specifically improve its governance procedures to ensure similar incidents will not happen again.

Media inquiries:

Chairman of LegCo Panel on Home Affairs, Culture and Sports, DAB Home Affairs, Culture and Sports Spokesperson, Vincent Cheng (63731979)