The International Hockey Federation (FIH) will open a new chapter in the development of future generations with the creation of the first Youth Hockey5s World Cup, to be held in Ismailia, Egypt, from December 7 to 12, 2026. The tournament will bring together 12 men’s and 12 women’s national under-18 teams, giving young players from different continents the opportunity to compete on an international stage designed to support their sporting development.
The initiative comes at a time when international competition opportunities for young hockey talents have changed significantly. Following the postponement of the 2022 Youth Olympic Games due to the pandemic and the decision for hockey to have a participatory, non-medal status at Dakar 2026, the FIH decided to create a new platform. But the proposal goes beyond filling a space on the calendar: it seeks to create an experience where competition is part of a broader process of learning and personal development.
A World Cup designed to develop the next generation
The FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup Egypt 2026 was created around an athlete-centred philosophy. Alongside the intensity and dynamism of Hockey5s, the event will incorporate programmes focused on well-being, education, Olympic values and the long-term development of those taking part. Before the competition begins, between December 7 and 9, athletes and team members will participate in initiatives inspired by the educational framework of the Youth Olympic Games.
The Athlete Talent Camp will address everything from hockey skills and tactics to the well-being and holistic development of young athletes. Meanwhile, the Youth Leadership Camp will provide a dedicated experience for young team officials and umpires, recognising that the future of sport does not depend solely on those who play on the court. Each participating nation will nominate an umpire between the ages of 18 and 25 to take part in the programme, with the opportunity to obtain official FIH certifications in umpiring or youth leadership.
Egypt and Africa gain prominence in the future of world hockey
The choice of Egypt as the host of the inaugural edition also carries a significance that goes beyond sport. For the FIH, bringing the first Youth Hockey5s World Cup to Ismailia represents an opportunity to strengthen hockey’s presence in new regions and recognise Africa’s growing role in hosting international sporting events. The continent will therefore become the setting where a new generation of players begins to build its first experiences in a global competition.
The Hockey5s format, characterised by its fast pace and accessibility, will be an important part of this expansion strategy. The competition will seek to bring the sport to new audiences and create more opportunities for young athletes from emerging countries and regions. In Ismailia, over six days in December 2026, the spotlight will be on players who are just beginning their international journeys, as well as young umpires, leaders and representatives who may find in this tournament their first opportunity to shape their future within hockey.
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