Pakistan to host FIH Nations Cup in Lahore in 2027

Pakistan will host a major International Hockey Federation (FIH) tournament for the first time in more than two decades, with Lahore set to stage the fifth edition of the FIH Hockey Men's Nations Cup from February 19 to 28, 2027.

The FIH officially announced the decision on Friday, November 13, following the signing of a hosting agreement in Islamabad. The ceremony was attended by FIH President Tayyab Ikram and interim Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani.

Pakistan to host first major FIH tournament since 2004

The tournament's return marks a significant development for Pakistan hockey, which has struggled to regain its former international standing. The country last hosted a major FIH tournament in 2004, when Lahore staged the Men's Champions Trophy.

The 2027 edition will also mark a change in the competition's format, with the number of participating teams increasing from eight to 10 for the first time.

Alongside hosts Pakistan, the participating nations will include Egypt, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, South Korea and the United States.

The 10-day competition will provide Pakistan with an opportunity to secure promotion to the 2027-28 FIH Hockey Pro League, with the tournament winners earning a place in the top-tier international competition.

Pakistan will look to build on its performance in the previous Nations Cup, where the national team finished runners-up in the 2024-25 edition before competing in the 2025-26 FIH Pro League season.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram described Pakistan's selection as a significant moment for international hockey, highlighting the country's rich hockey heritage and the importance of bringing major international competitions back to the nation.

Meanwhile, PHF President Mohyuddin Wani pointed to the federation’s recent steps to strengthen Pakistan hockey, including competing in international tournaments and bringing in foreign coaching staff.

“Pakistan will be wonderful hosts, and hockey fans will have the opportunity to witness world-class, highly competitive international hockey on home soil,” Wani said.

Nations Cup history and previous winners

Introduced in 2022, the FIH Hockey Men's Nations Cup provides emerging hockey nations with an opportunity to compete at a high international level while offering a pathway to the Pro League.

South Africa hosted and won the inaugural edition in 2022, while Poland and Malaysia staged subsequent tournaments. New Zealand have won the title twice, while France are the reigning champions after claiming the 2025-26 edition and securing promotion to the Pro League.

For Pakistan, hosting the 2027 tournament presents an opportunity to bring international hockey back to local fans and compete for a place among the world's leading hockey nations.