FIH World Cup 2026: Indian women's hockey team departs for Europe

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The Indian Women’s Hockey Team set off for Europe early Wednesday morning, kicking off its journey toward the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026, set to take place from 15 to 30 August.

Departing from Bengaluru, the squad will transit via Mumbai before taking an onward flight to Frankfurt, Germany, where it will complete the final leg of its preparations ahead of the major FIH tournament. While in Frankfurt, the Indian side is scheduled to play a couple of warm-up games against host Germany on 31 July and 1 August to get accustomed to European conditions.

Upon wrapping up the German camp, the team will head to Amsterdam on 2 August to carry forward its World Cup buildup in the Netherlands.

Placed in Pool D, India will begin its campaign against China on 16 August, followed by fixtures against South Africa and England.

Ahead of the team’s departure, captain Salima Tete expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and said, “The entire squad is looking forward to the challenge ahead. We’ve had a good training block, and now it’s about carrying that momentum into the practice matches and then the World Cup. Facing China in our opening game will be an important test, and we want to start the tournament on a positive note. As a team, we are determined to give our best and make the country proud.”

Men’s team unveils new kit ahead of the World Cup

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team recently revealed its new playing kit ahead of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, which is also scheduled to take place in Belgium and the Netherlands from 14 to 30 August. India earned direct entry into the event following their triumph at the Men’s Asia Cup on home soil last year.

Posting on X, the official handle of Hockey India said, “Every thread tells a story. Every crest carries a dream. The Indian Men’s Hockey Team unveils its new jersey ahead of the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026–a symbol of pride, passion, and the unwavering belief of millions. Here’s to giving everything for India.”

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