Hong Kong Withdraw From Pink Ladies Cup Amid Middle East Tensions

Hong Kong Withdraw From Pink Ladies Cup Amid Middle East Tensions

By Admin 

Hong Kong have officially withdrawn from the 2026 Pink Ladies Cup in Dubai following escalating security concerns in the United Arab Emirates, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The decision comes after missile strikes reportedly targeted the UAE, amid heightened regional tensions following retaliatory action by Iran in response to recent US-Israeli strikes. The situation has raised safety concerns for teams participating in the women’s international tournament.

The Hong Kong, China Women’s Representative Team had already begun competing in the invitational competition prior to their withdrawal. They suffered a 4–0 defeat to Ghana women's national football team in their opening fixture and were scheduled to face Tanzania women's national football team on March 4 and Russia women's national football team on March 6.

In an official statement, the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) confirmed the withdrawal, citing player and staff safety as the overriding concern.

“Due to the continuously tense situation in the Middle East, the HKFA has formally written to the organisers of the Pink Ladies Cup 2026 that the Hong Kong, China Women’s Representative Team will withdraw from the tournament and will not participate in the remaining matches, with the safety of staff and players as the top priority,” the statement read.

As of the time of reporting, the other participating nations — Ghana, Tanzania and Russia — have not announced any plans to withdraw from the competition.

Ghana are using the tournament as part of their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Morocco later this month.