The International Hockey Federation (FIH) is delighted to announce that Pakistan will host the upcoming 2026–27 edition of the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup in Lahore from 19-28 February 2027.

Returning to one of international hockey’s most storied nations, the fifth edition of the tournament will mark an exciting new chapter for the competition, expanding from an eight-team roster to a 10-team format for the very first time. This expansion reflects the growing competitiveness of international men’s hockey and provides more nations with high-stakes tournament exposure.

Alongside hosts Pakistan, who finished as runners-up in the 2024–25 edition before gaining valuable top-flight experience during a stint in the FIH Hockey Pro League in 2025-26, the participating lineup brings together a diverse and fiercely competitive field from across five continents. Joining the hosts in February will be Egypt, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, Korea, and the United States.

Over the course of ten days of intense competition, these ten nations will battle not only for the prestigious title, but also for a vital pathway to the sport’s elite tier. With the competition tougher than ever before, the eventual champions will earn the opportunity for promotion to the 2027–28 season of the FIH Hockey Pro League, joining the world’s top-ranked hockey nations in the “League of the Best”.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram making the announcement, said: “Pakistan hosting the 2026-27 FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup marks a deeply significant moment for global hockey. Pakistan holds a cherished and foundational place in the heritage of our sport, driven by an extraordinary passion from its fans and an undeniable legacy of champions.

Bringing a major FIH event back to the country reflects our continued commitment to expanding hockey’s footprint and supporting national associations eager to compete on the world stage. The Pakistan Hockey Federation and local authorities are sure to deliver a world-class tournament that honors the spirit of the game and inspires the next generation of hockey players across the region.”

Launched in 2022 to offer high-level competitive opportunities and establish a clear, merit-based promotion-relegation pathway to the FIH Hockey Pro League, the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup has quickly become a cornerstone of the international hockey calendar.

The tournament has previously been hosted by South Africa (Potchefstroom 2022 and Cape Town 2026), Poland (Gniezno 2024), and Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur 2025). Its roll of honor features inaugural winners South Africa, two-time titleholders New Zealand, who return to the 2026–27 lineup looking to reclaim their crown, and reigning 2025-26 champions France, who will compete in the FIH Hockey Pro League this season.