The FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 will forever hold a special place in hockey history. For the very first time, the sport’s biggest tournament was hosted on Belgian soil, as Wavre became the beating heart of international hockey for thirteen unforgettable match days.
The tournament began in spectacular fashion with an electric Opening Ceremony featuring Belgian DJ Henri PFR. Together with a local dance group, plenty of light effects and Henri PFR’s music, the ceremony set the stage for what would become an unforgettable celebration of hockey.
On the field, the Belgian Red Lions dreamt of glory in front of their home crowd. Despite a challenging campaign resulting in a 7th place overall, they fought until the very end. Their final match against India produced a dramatic shootout, as 10.000 fans united behind goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch. Goosebumps throughout the stands. Earlier in the tournament, the Belgian legend had celebrated his 300th international appearance, adding another memorable chapter to an outstanding career.
Ahead of the Red Panthers’ final home appearance against Argentina, fans were treated to an energetic pre-game show by Belgian sensations Omdat Het Kan & Average Rob, creating a festival atmosphere around the arena.
The Belgian Red Panthers truly captured the hearts of the nation. Driven by ambition, determination and the incredible support from the stands, they chased history throughout the tournament. Their efforts were rewarded with a historic bronze medal, Belgium’s first women’s World Cup medal in 48 years.
The final weekend delivered even more memorable moments. Hockey welcomed royalty as the King of Belgium attended the men’s final between Spain and Germany. Earlier, the Red Panthers were honoured with a royal handshake following their historic bronze medal performance.
Beyond the medals and the results, the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 showcased the power of sport to bring people together. More than 110.000 spectators filled the stands at the Belfius Hockey Arena, creating an atmosphere unlike any other. Across the tournament, over 9.000 VIP guestswere welcomed in the Business, Champions and Legends Lounges, while more than 3.000 volunteers worked behind the scenes to bring the event to life.
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The first Hockey World Cup on Belgian soil has come to an end, but its legacy will live on for many years to come.
A special thanks to all our partners who made this event possible.
- Global partners: VIDA, Hero, JSW & Belfius
- Event partners: Amul, Nike, Audi, Brussels Airport, Post NL, Grant Thornton, Lotto & Delhaize
- Event suppliers: Polytan, Watch.Hockey, Candriam, Powerade, Carlsberg & Van Der Valk
- Institutional partners: Ville de Wavre, Brabant wallon, Adeps Pro : Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles & Wallonie
- Media partners: Le Soir, BEL RTL & Sporza
For more pictures and good vibes, head to the photos page.
Relive all the action on @hockey.worldcup.
