The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has launched the first-ever FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup Egypt 2026, marking a new step in the global expansion of the fast-paced Hockey5s format. The tournament will be held in Ismailia, Egypt, from December 7 to 12, 2026.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening youth participation in hockey and providing a global platform for emerging players. The event is being guided by FIH President Tayyab Ikram as part of the federation’s efforts to develop the sport at the grassroots level.
Hockey5s is a shorter and faster version of traditional field hockey, featuring fewer players and a format designed to encourage quick attacking play, more goal-scoring opportunities and wider participation. The senior FIH Hockey5s World Cup was introduced with its inaugural edition held in Oman in 2024.
The launch of a youth-level World Cup follows the growing popularity of the format among hockey-playing nations. FIH has been promoting Hockey5s as a way to make the sport more accessible, especially for younger athletes and developing hockey regions.
Egypt will host the tournament in Ismailia, a city that has previously featured in international hockey events, including FIH competitions and qualifiers. The hosting of the youth tournament is expected to provide an opportunity to showcase Egypt’s hockey infrastructure while encouraging participation among young athletes.
For India, the introduction of another global youth competition provides an additional pathway for junior players to gain international exposure. Hockey India has also been involved in promoting Hockey5s events, with Indian teams participating in youth-level competitions.
The FIH said the Youth Hockey5s World Cup will become part of its broader strategy to expand hockey’s reach and create more competitive opportunities for young players worldwide.
Further details regarding participating teams, qualification process and match schedule are expected to be announced by FIH ahead of the tournament.
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