The FIH has officially announced the schedule for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 for both men’s and women’s teams.
The Indian men’s team will start their campaign on 15th August 2026, which also marks India’s 80th Independence Day, against Wales. Meanwhile, the Indian women’s team will begin their campaign on 16th August against China.
This World Cup is very important for both teams as it will lay the foundation for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Indian Men’s Hockey Team Schedule
- 15th August – vs Wales
- 17th August – vs England
- 19th August – vs Pakistan
The Indian men’s team will start their campaign against Wales, followed by matches against England on 17th August and arch-rivals Pakistan on 19th August.
All these matches are crucial for Team India to qualify for the next round. It will not be an easy journey, especially considering their performance in the last FIH Pro League. The team needs to fill several gaps before the World Cup to become a strong title contender.
However, if the team improves and plays with the same freedom and confidence shown in the last couple of years, they have a good chance to perform well and aim for the title.
Indian Women’s Hockey Team Schedule
- 16th August – vs China
- 18th August – vs South Africa
- 20th August – vs England
The Indian women’s team looks more confident and a stronger title contender compared to the men’s team. They have been playing very good hockey in recent months.
Under the new coach, the team has shown great improvement. In the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers, India reached the final and finished as runners-up. Even in the absence of Savita Punia, the team performed well, and after her return, the team looks even stronger and more balanced.
This time, the Indian women’s team is not just a participant but one of the strong contenders for the title.
This is the first time in history that the FIH has scheduled both men’s and women’s Hockey World Cups together.
Both teams have a great opportunity to perform and possibly win the tournament. Now it will be interesting to see how Team India plays on the big stage.
