The Federation of International Bandy (FIB) has announced that the city of Pori, Finland, will host the 2026 Bandy World Championships for both men’s and women’s categories. The competitions will take place between January 12 and 18, 2026, marking the return of this event to Finland after 25 years.
FIB President Henrik Nilsson highlighted the importance of this choice: “We are delighted to announce that the 2026 World Championships will be held in Pori, Finland. The city and the local bandy community have shown tremendous enthusiasm for bringing our sport to life, and we are confident that it will be an exceptional setting for the world’s best bandy players.”
A historic return for bandy in Finland
The last time Finland hosted the Men’s Bandy World Championships was in 2001, in the cities of Oulu and Tornio. In addition, the country organized the first Women’s World Championships in 2004 and welcomed the players back in 2014 in Lappeenranta. This new event reinforces Finland’s tradition in this winter sport.
Antti Parviainen, president of the Finnish Bandy Association, expressed his enthusiasm for the decision: “This is a great victory for the bandy tradition in Finland. The World Championships are returning to our country after 25 years. A huge thank you to the city of Pori and the Narukerä bandy club for their enthusiastic support from the very beginning.”
Preparations for an unforgettable event
Organizing the World Championships in Pori is a major logistical and sporting challenge. According to Parviainen, “now that the decision is official, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. I hope to see strong support from the business community and the entire bandy and sports family for this historic event.”
The support of the city of Pori and the local club Narukerä has been key to Finland’s successful bid. This joint effort seeks not only to ensure the success of the event, but also to promote bandy as a sport in the country and internationally.
A tradition that continues to grow
Finland has been a leader in bandy for decades, and this event reinforces its position as one of the key countries in the development of the sport.
