For the first time, Belgium and the Netherlands will jointly host the FIH Hockey World Cup, turning the sport’s global showcase into a cross‑border celebration. Matches will be split between the newly built Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre and the historic Wagener Stadium in Amsterdam, each offering a distinct character that together reflects the tournament’s blend of heritage and modernity.
State‑of‑the‑art arena meets century‑old stadium
The Belfius Hockey Arena, with its 4,000 permanent seats and the ability to expand to 10,000 for the World Cup, serves as Belgium’s flagship venue. Its naming rights belong to Belfius, a global partner of the International Hockey Federation, for the next five years, underscoring the tournament’s commercial reach.
In Amsterdam, the Wagener Stadium, constructed in 1938, brings a storied backdrop to the competition. Having witnessed multiple World Cups and EuroHockey Nations Championships, the venue will host the other half of the group stage, delivering a sense of continuity that links past triumphs with future ambitions.
During the group phase, four matches will be played each day across the two sites, ensuring a packed schedule that fuels a festival atmosphere. Fan zones, live performances and Hockey5s exhibitions will accompany the games, creating a carnival‑like environment that extends beyond the pitch.
This edition marks the third occasion that the men’s and women’s tournaments will unfold simultaneously in the same venues, a milestone that highlights the sport’s growing equity and visibility. In addition, the arenas will host the inaugural 2026 FIH Para Hockey World Cup for athletes with intellectual disabilities, scheduled from August 20 to 24, further cementing the event’s inclusive spirit.
Beyond competition, the joint hosting model showcases a collaborative approach to major sporting events, leveraging each country’s strengths — Belgium’s modern infrastructure and the Netherlands’ rich hockey legacy. The partnership promises not only a spectacular tournament but also a lasting legacy for the development of hockey worldwide.