Pakistan set to host FIH Hockey Nations Cup in Lahore next year

Pakistan is set to host the fifth edition of the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup from February 19 to 28, 2027, marking a return to the sport after a 24-year hiatus. The decision was announced by FIH President Tayyab Ikram and interim PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani at a ceremony in Islamabad, where they signed an agreement for the tournament's hosting.

The event will feature 10 teams, including hosts Pakistan, Egypt, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, South Korea, and the United States. This marks the first expansion of the competition from eight to 10 teams, reflecting the growing competitiveness of international men’s hockey. The Nations Cup champions will secure a spot in the top-tier FIH Hockey Pro League.

Addressing the ceremony, Ikram described the event as a major international hockey occasion and emphasized Pakistan’s rich hockey legacy, promising the FIH’s full support for the game’s revival. He also announced the approval of Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium as a High Performance Centre to aid player development. The government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is working towards reviving Pakistan’s hockey, which has faced a decline over the past two decades.

The Nations Cup provides emerging nations with high-level competition and a pathway to the Pro League, offering Pakistan an opportunity to host a significant sporting event and showcase its capacity to stage major international hockey events.