Home advantage fuels ambition
The Belgian Red Panthers, the national women's hockey team, have been selected for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, a milestone that has sparked excitement across the country.
The tournament will run from 15 to 30 August, split between the purpose‑built venue in Waver, Belgium, and the familiar pitches of Amstelveen in the Netherlands, giving the Belgian side a rare chance to play on home soil.
Coach Adam Commens, who announced the 20‑player squad, praised the blend of quality, speed and ambition, saying the players are eager to feel the roar of their compatriots. The roster includes Elena Sotgiu, Elodie Picard, Vanessa Blockmans, Hélène Brasseur, Lien Hillewaert, Lisa Moors, Emma Puvrez, Stephanie Vanden Borre, Camille Belis, Perrine de Clerck, Louise Dewaet, Alix Gerniers, Michelle Struijk, Judith Vandermeiren, Ambre Ballenghien, Charlotte Englebert, Delphine Marien, Justine Rasir, Famke Van Heel and Emilie Verhees, all of whom will wear the red jersey under Commens's guidance.
With the eyes of a nation on them, the Red Panthers are preparing intensive training sessions, focusing on tactical cohesion and mental resilience, hoping to translate home advantage into a historic performance.