Three Hong Kong men’s ice hockey players were left hurt after an “attack” during a match with Turkmenistan at the Asian Winter Games.
Four players from Turkmenistan have been suspended and thrown out of the games in the Chinese city of Harbin, Hong Kong sports officials said, citing the InternationalIce Hockey Federation (IIHF).
“Several” Hong Kong players were knocked down onto the ice by their opponents after they defeated Turkmenistan 5-1 at the weekend, according to Chinese state media.
Footage on social media showed at least three Turkmenistan players throwing punches at Hong Kong players as referees attempted to intervene.
Disgusting sucker punch from Turkmenistan forward 🇹🇲Arslan Geldimyradov on a Hong Kong player after the final buzzer. 😬👊
Hong Kong 🇭🇰 won the game 5-1 to advance to the quarterfinals at the 2025 Asian Winter Games.
In one video, a Hong Kong player has his helmet knocked off after being on the receiving end of a sucker punch.
“The Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China strongly condemns the deliberate attack causing injuries to Hong Kong athletes by Turkmen athletes,” the governing body said in a statement.
It said that three Hong Kong players were hurt, but none seriously, and they will be able to continue playing in the competition. One had stitches on his hand.
“I am very shocked and heartbroken. I strongly condemn this act of violence,” said chef de mission Kenneth Fok.
