Following on from the success of the hockey pitches at those Olympics in London, the two competition pitches, warm-up area and two training pitches in Rio will feature the distinctive blue playing surface, provided by Polytan STI.

The company, a Sport Group company with headquarters in Europe, North America and Oceania, had been appointed the FIH's Preferred Pitch Supplier in February 2013. 

"I am delighted at the appointment of Polytan STI, who with their expertise and experience, will provide a top quality playing surface for the players," said Kelly Fairweather, chief executive of the FIH.

"The blue turf at London 2012, made hockey one of the most talked about and broadcast sports of the 2012 Olympic Games.

"It adds to the spectator experience at the event and also off the field by enhancing online and TV viewing."

India's men's hockey team qualified for Rio 2016 after claiming the gold medal at the 2014 Asian Games ©Getty Images






The hockey competition, scheduled to take place at the Olympic Hockey Centre in the Deodoro Olympic Park from August 6 to 19, will feature the 12 best men's and 12 best women's teams from around the globe.

India's men and South Korea's women became the first two teams to secure Olympic qualification after their victories at the recent 2014 Asian Games in Incheon.

Stephen Niven, chief executive of Sport Group Asia Pacific, said: "As the first Olympic Games in South America, this tournament represents a significant milestone in sporting history.

"We are proud that Poligras pitches will play a vital role in making these Olympic Games a success."

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