USA and Uruguay Make Historic Entry into FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2026

The 2026 FIH Hockey Nations Cup will see first-time entrants, USA men's and Uruguay women's teams, following the withdrawal of Scotland women's and Wales men's teams. The tournament is scheduled for June 2026 with the women's event in New Zealand and the men's event in South Africa.

In an exciting development for international field hockey, the USA men's and Uruguay women's teams are set to make their inaugural appearances at the FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2026. This comes after Scotland women's and Wales men's teams pulled out of the prestigious tournament.

The Women's Nations Cup will unfold in Auckland, New Zealand, and is scheduled from June 15 to June 21. Joining hosts New Zealand in the competition are teams from the USA, Japan, Korea, Chile, Uruguay, France, and India—adding a competitive edge to the tournament with their diverse playing styles and strategies.

Meanwhile, Cape Town, South Africa, will play host to the men's tournament from June 11 to June 20. The event promises thrilling matches with participants including South Africa, New Zealand, France, Korea, Japan, Malaysia, USA, Scotland, and Ireland. The FIH Hockey Nations Cup was introduced in 2021 to offer highly-ranked teams, not in the Pro League, a platform to compete, with the aim of promotion to the Pro League for the succeeding season.

Notably, India, Spain, and New Zealand women's teams have previously claimed victory in the last three editions, while South Africa and New Zealand men's teams have marked their dominance in the men's event. This year, expectations are high as new teams bring fresh energy to the field.

(With inputs from agencies.)