Belgium and Netherlands to Jointly Host 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup

The 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup is set to be a landmark event for international field hockey, as Belgium and the Netherlands co-host both the men’s and women’s tournaments for the first time in a dual-host format. Scheduled from 15 to 30 August 2026, the event will feature 16 teams per gender, all competing in a new structure designed to increase competitiveness and fan engagement. This edition will also mark a historic first: the inclusion of the ParaHockey World Cup, making it one of the most inclusive FIH tournaments to date.

Dual-Host Venues: Wavre and Amsterdam

The matches will be shared between two top-class stadiums,

• Belfius Hockey Arena, Wavre, Belgium
• Wagener Stadium, Amsterdam, Netherlands

The men’s final will be held in Wavre, while the women’s final will take place in Amsterdam. Both nations, known for their strong hockey heritage, will act as home bases for their national teams, expected to draw huge local support throughout the tournament.

New Format: Group Progression Redefined

The 2026 edition introduces a revised competition format,

• 16 men’s and 16 women’s teams divided into four groups
• Top two teams from each group move to the second group phase, carrying forward results against already faced teams
• The next phase will determine semi-finalists and placement rankings
• Teams that don’t progress will play in alternate groups for lower classification

This dual-group progression model is designed to maintain excitement throughout the group stages and offer fairer opportunities to all participating nations.

Participating Nations and Qualification

Half of the team slots have already been secured, including the hosts Belgium and Netherlands and other top-performing nations. The remaining teams will qualify via,

• Continental championships
• Playoffs scheduled in early 2026

The official tournament draw will be held in March 2026, finalizing group assignments and base cities for each team.

ParaHockey World Cup Debut

One of the most significant inclusions in 2026 is the first-ever FIH ParaHockey World Cup, to be held alongside the main tournament.

• Focus: Athletes with intellectual disabilities
• Venues: Same as the main events (Wavre and Amsterdam)
• Purpose: Promote diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunity within global hockey

This inclusion reflects FIH’s commitment to making hockey a sport that celebrates ability, participation, and inclusiveness.

Static Facts

• Tournament Name: 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup
• Dates: August 15 to 30, 2026
• Host Nations: Belgium and Netherlands
• Main Venues: Belfius Hockey Arena (Wavre) & Wagener Stadium (Amsterdam)
• Teams: 16 men’s teams + 16 women’s teams
• Format: Dual-group progression with results carried into next phase