The 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup will bring together sixteen national teams in both the men’s and women’s competitions, kicking off on August 15 and running through August 30. Belgium and the Netherlands have been selected as joint hosts, sharing the tournament across two state‑of‑the‑art venues.
A distinctive feature of this edition is the introduction of a two‑phase format. After an initial round robin in four groups of four, the top two from each group advance to a second stage where their earlier results are carried forward, adding a strategic layer to the knockout rounds.
Matches will be played at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, Belgium, and the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands, giving fans a chance to experience world‑class facilities in two different countries.
A New Format Takes Shape
The revised competition structure is designed to increase competitiveness while rewarding consistent performance. Carry‑over points from the group phase will influence seeding in the second stage, meaning early matches have lasting consequences.
Among the women’s field, the Netherlands enter as overwhelming favorites. Having secured nine World Cup titles and five Olympic gold medals, they sit more than 500 points ahead of their rivals in the world rankings, making them a formidable force.
In the men’s draw, Germany stands out as the reigning champion, while Belgium holds the top spot in the current world rankings. Both teams are expected to battle fiercely for the title, with Germany’s recent form suggesting they are the tournament’s leading contender.
Broadcast and Streaming
British viewers can watch all England, Scotland and Wales matches on Channel 4, with coverage also available on the Welsh-language channel S4C and the Gaelic service BBC ALBA. The broadcasts will be free to air, ensuring broad access to the action.
Every game will also be streamed live on FIH Watch.Hockey. Fans who want unrestricted access throughout the tournament can purchase a World Cup 2026 pass for £44.99, a price that covers all live matches and on‑demand replays.
Historically, British nations have come close to the podium but have never captured the World Cup. England finished third in 2010 and were runners‑up in 1986, while Scotland and Wales have had limited recent appearances, with Wales only qualifying for the 2026 edition after their first tournament in 2023.
Looking Ahead
With the tournament just a day away, excitement is building across the hockey community. The blend of a fresh competition format, high‑stakes matches and widespread broadcast options promises a memorable event that could reshape the sport’s global profile.