HOCKEY INDIA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Telangana to host the Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, which will take place in Hyderabad from 8 to 14 March.
The tournament will bring together eight international teams, India, England, Scotland, Korea, Italy, Uruguay, Wales and Austria as they battle for a place at the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026, scheduled to be held from 15 to 30 August.
Three World Cup spots will be on offer in Hyderabad, with the top three finishers in the qualifiers securing direct entry to the global tournament. The upcoming World Cup will feature 16 men’s and 16 women’s teams, with nine sides in each category already qualified, making the remaining qualification phase highly competitive.
The MoU signing reinforces India’s position as a leading destination for international hockey while also underlining Telangana’s growing reputation as a hub for major sporting events.
With World Cup qualification on the line, the Hyderabad leg of the qualifiers is set to deliver a week of fiercely contested matches and showcase the best of women’s hockey on the world stage.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy said, “Telangana is proud to partner with Hockey India and the FIH to host the Women’s 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad. This event reflects our government’s strong commitment to promoting sports, empowering women athletes, and positioning Hyderabad as a world-class sporting destination. We look forward to welcoming the passionate hockey nations and delivering an exceptional experience for players and fans alike.”
Telangana Sports Minister Vakiti Srihari stated, “It is a great opportunity for us to showcase the interest and ambition we have for sports development in the region of Telangana. Investing in sports is equivalent to investing in the youth and we are delighted to be chosen as the hosts for this prestigious event and international hockey will be hosted in our state for the first time in many years.”
FIH President Tayyab Ikram commented, “India continues to play a pivotal role in the global hockey ecosystem, and Hyderabad has proven itself as an outstanding host city. We are delighted to see the Government of Telangana and Hockey India come together to deliver a world-class qualification event. With World Cup places on the line and top athletes in action, fans can expect highly competitive and exciting hockey.”
Hockey India President Dr Dilip Tirkey added, “This MoU marks another significant milestone for Hockey India as we continue to bring top-level international hockey to the country. Hyderabad has the infrastructure, experience and passionate fan base required to host an event of this magnitude. We are confident that the Women’s World Cup Qualifiers will further inspire young players across India.”
