In exactly 100 days, the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026 will start with an exciting match between the Australian and Japanese Women’s national teams.
This symbolic milestone also marks the day the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has designated for the third edition of its now annual ‘World Hockey Day’, launched on the occasion of its centenary in 2024.
Thirty-two teams – 16 women’s and 16 men’s – comprising the world’s finest hockey athletes, will compete for the coveted World Cup trophy from 15 to 30 August.
This year’s World Cup symbolises inclusivity – not only because the Women’s and Men’s World Cups are being held simultaneously at the same venues, but also due to the launch of the inaugural FIH Hockey Para Hockey World Cup.
Therefore, on ‘World Hockey Day’, FIH has urged the global hockey community to launch new projects to expand hockey into new communities.
As preparations for the World Cup intensify, fans around the world are invited to name the two lovely mascots unveiled at the draw on 17 March. To participate, fans simply need to click on this post and submit their suggestions in the comments.
The host National Associations, meanwhile, have also planned some specific activities to celebrate both World Hockey Day and the 100-day milestone.
In Belgium, the second stop of the FIH Hockey World Cup Promo Tour will take place in the city of Charleroi.
The Promo Tour brings hockey to various cities and municipalities across Brussels and Wallonia, offering the public and especially young people the opportunity to discover hockey, meet the local club, and learn more about the World Cup.
At every location, a player from the national teams – the Red Lions and Red Panthers – will also be present to bring the tournament’s energy to the cities.
Meanwhile, the Dutch Hockey Association will take the opportunity to introduce the FIH World Cup Fanzone, a vibrant heart of fan entertainment at the tournament.
Alongside the action on the pitch, the Fanzone will bring top‑level excitement off the pitch, offering fans an immersive experience filled with live performances from top artists, dynamic entertainment, appearances from national team players, pre‑ and post- match insights, and a unique insight into the part of the tournament taking place in Belgium.
