United in Hockey, Driven by Community
Belgium & Netherlands Set the Stage for a Historic 2026 Hockey World Cup
This upcoming tournament will be only the second time in history that the men’s and women’s World Cups are staged together, creating a unified global spectacle and strengthening the sense of a shared hockey community.
A Journey Through World Cup History
The men’s World Cup began its story in Barcelona in 1971, with Pakistan lifting the inaugural trophy. Over the decades, the event has grown into the pinnacle of international men’s hockey, producing unforgettable rivalries and defining eras. Pakistan remains the most decorated team with four titles, while Australia, the Netherlands and Germany have each claimed three wins. Germany enter 2026 as the reigning champions, having triumphed at the 2023 World Cup in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela.
The women’s event launched in 1974 in Mandelieu, France, where the Netherlands claimed the historic first title. Since then, the global rise of women’s hockey has been reflected in the tournament’s evolution. The Dutch women have been the most dominant force, winning nine titles, including the most recent edition hosted by Spain and the Netherlands in 2022. Along the way, the World Cup has showcased era-defining stars such as Luciana Aymar, Alyson Annan, Natascha Keller, Rani Rampal and Eva de Goede.
A New Era for 2026
Belgium and the Netherlands — both modern powerhouses of the sport — are preparing to deliver a World Cup experience of unmatched scale. From their cutting-edge stadiums and vibrant fan zones to world-leading broadcast coverage, every detail is being refined to ensure athletes and fans enjoy a spectacular global showcase.
With one year to go, qualification is well underway. In the men’s competition, Belgium and the Netherlands qualify automatically as hosts. Australia and Spain sealed their spots through the FIH Hockey Pro League, while Argentina booked their place by winning the 2025 Pan American Cup. Germany secured qualification through the EuroHockey Championship. The remaining continental events in Asia, Oceania and Africa will determine the next wave of qualifiers before the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers conclude the line-up.
The same pathway applies to the women’s competition. Belgium and the Netherlands again qualify as hosts, Germany and Argentina join through the Pro League, and the USA earned their ticket via the 2025 Pan American Cup. Spain has already qualified from the EuroHockey Championship. Additional continental events and the 2026 Qualifiers will fill the remaining positions.
Leaders Share Their Vision
As the countdown begins, global hockey leadership has expressed excitement and confidence in the upcoming joint World Cup.
FIH President Tayyab Ikram emphasised the significance of the 2026 edition, saying:
“The FIH Hockey World Cup is our flagship event. Where legends are made. Where teams give it all for a unique moment of glory. Where athletes celebrate a moment of performance and togetherness. The fact that both women and men will play the 2026 World Cup at the same time and in the same venues makes it even more special! Our co-hosts, Belgium and the Netherlands, are already working very hard to make this event the best World Cup ever! So, my message to all hockey fans around the world is: pencil this event in bold letters in your agenda. You can expect an unforgettable event!”
Dutch Hockey Association CEO Erik Gerritsen added:
“Now that the first teams have qualified, the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 is getting closer. Preparations are in full swing, and we’re really looking forward to it!”
And from Belgium, Hockey Belgium CEO Serge Pilet said:
“At the moment we’re still battling it out at the Euros in Mönchengladbach, but in just one year we’ll be back on home soil—only 180 km away! Our brand-new stadium in Wavre will set the stage for the world’s top hockey teams to shine. Get ready for an unforgettable showdown!”
A World Cup to Unite the Hockey Family
With preparations intensifying and qualification heating up, the 2026 World Cup promises to be a landmark moment — not only for Europe, but for the entire international hockey community. As the countdown begins, excitement continues to build for a celebration of performance, passion, and unity across two nations deeply connected to the global game.