Mar 16, 2026

The South African Hockey Association is proud to confirm that Cape Town will host the 2025–26 FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup from 11–20 June 2026, bringing some of the world’s top international hockey teams to South African soil.

The prestigious tournament forms part of the global competition structure of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and provides the winning nation with the opportunity to be promoted to the 2026–27 FIH Hockey Pro League, the pinnacle of international hockey competition.

The Cape Town event will feature an outstanding lineup of international teams including South Africa, New Zealand, France, Korea, Japan, Wales, Malaysia, Scotland and Ireland.

Scotland earned their place through promotion via the FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2, while Ireland enter the tournament following their participation in the 2024–25 FIH Hockey Pro League season.

This will mark the return of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup to South Africa, following the country’s successful hosting of the inaugural edition in Potchefstroom in 2022, where South Africa lifted the historic first title.

The Nations Cup has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting tournaments in the international calendar since its launch in 2021. It provides the highest level of competition for nations outside the Pro League, creating a pathway for teams to compete at the very top of the sport.

With global broadcast distribution, international teams, and passionate local supporters expected to attend, the tournament presents a unique opportunity to showcase world-class hockey in South Africa.

A Global Event on African Soil

FIH President Tayyab Ikram welcomed the announcement of the host nations:

“On behalf of FIH, I would like to express our sincere thanks to the Hockey Associations of South Africa. We are delighted to have an outstanding host nation and city for this remarkable tournaments. I’m excited for the thrilling matches and the fantastic atmosphere that will unfold, as some of the world’s top teams showcase their talent for hockey fans around the globe.”

Opportunities for South African Partners

Hosting the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup represents a major milestone for South African hockey, providing an opportunity to bring international sport, tourism, and community engagement together in one of the world’s great sporting cities.

The event will offer significant commercial and branding opportunities for organisations looking to align with international sport. SA Hockey is currently engaging with partners across multiple categories including:

• Tournament partners
• Event activation partners
• Community and development partners

With international broadcast exposure, live event audiences, and extensive digital coverage, the FIH Hockey Nations Cup offers brands a powerful platform to connect with fans both locally and globally.

Organisations interested in partnering with South African Hockey for this historic event are encouraged to contact Marketing@Sahockey.co.za or CEO@Sahockey.co.za if they would like to find out more.

A Proud Moment for South African Hockey

South Africa’s men’s team made history by winning the inaugural Nations Cup in 2022, and the opportunity to compete on home soil once again adds further excitement to the tournament.

SA Hockey President Deon Morgan welcomed the announcement and the opportunity for South Africa to host world-class international hockey once again.

“Hosting the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup in Cape Town is a significant moment for South African hockey. It gives our national team the opportunity to compete against some of the best teams in the world on home soil, while also showcasing the passion and strength of hockey in our country. Events like this inspire the next generation of players and demonstrate South Africa’s capability to host world-class international sport.”

With world-class teams, a passionate hockey community, and the iconic setting of Cape Town, the 2026 FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup promises to be a landmark moment for the sport in South Africa.

Source: SAhockey.co.za