"One of the Most Anticipated" – FIH Releases Pakistan's Hockey World Cup 2026 Schedule

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has released the match schedule for the 2026 Hockey World Cup, set to be staged across Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15 to 30. The tournament will open in Amstelveen, where India national field hockey team face Wales national field hockey team.

Pakistan national field hockey team begin their campaign later the same day with a match against England national field hockey team. Their second fixture will be against Wales before a key group-stage clash with India on August 19, one of the most anticipated matches in the early phase of the competition.

Pool Structure and Qualification Format

The 16-team tournament has been divided into four pools following an official draw held at the Wagener Hockey Stadium. Hosts Netherlands headline Pool A, while co-hosts Belgium are placed in Pool B alongside defending champions Germany.

Pakistan are grouped in Pool D with India, England and Wales, making it one of the more competitive sections. Australia, Spain, Ireland and South Africa form Pool C.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the next round, where they will be split into two new pools. Teams progressing from Pools A and D will combine in one group, while qualifiers from Pools B and C will form the other.

Knockout Stage and Final Venue

The competition will move into the knockout phase after the second group stage, with the top two sides from each pool advancing to the semi-finals. The final is scheduled to be played at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre on August 30.

Officials including FIH president Tayyab Ikram were present during the draw ceremony, marking the formal start of preparations for the global event.