Pakistan to Join Global Stage for Inaugural FIH Para Hockey World Cup

Pakistan is poised to make history in 2026 as it joins the debut FIH Para Hockey World Cup, representing a significant leap for adaptive sports within the nation. The inaugural competition, sanctioned by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), is scheduled for August 20–24, 2026, with hosting duties shared between Belgium and the Netherlands.

This landmark event utilizes a 6-a-side Para Hockey structure specifically for players with intellectual disabilities, underscores a global commitment to sporting diversity. Slotting into Pool A, Pakistan will compete exclusively in Belgium. The squad is slated to go head-to-head against Belgium, Italy, Germany, France, Zambia, the USA, and Paraguay in the opening round.

Meanwhile, Pool B fixtures will occur in the Netherlands, featuring a competitive field including the host nation, Spain, Bulgaria, England, India, Malaysia, Chile, and Argentina. The tournament will be staged at HC Myra in Amstelveen and Louvain-La-Neuve HC in Belgium. The championships will culminate at Wagener Stadium and Belfius Hockey Arena, sharing the stage with the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram hailed the tournament as a historic turning point, noting its vital role in fostering inclusion and providing a global platform for intellectually disabled athletes. Since its inception roughly 14 years ago, Para Hockey has expanded to over 30 national federations. The discipline’s use of mixed-gender rosters further cements its status as a pioneer for inclusive athletics.