VANTAGE BLACK STICKS WOMEN FIH NATIONS CUP DRAW ANNOUNCED
The Vantage Black Sticks Women are set to return home for the 2026 Women’s FIH Nations Cup in Auckland, where they will look to defend their title on home soil.
Taking place from 15–21 June 2026 at the North Harbour National Hockey Centre, the tournament will bring eight international teams to New Zealand, with the Vantage Black Sticks Women aiming to go back-to-back after being crowned champions in 2025.
The Nations Cup features the top-ranked teams outside of the FIH Pro League, with the winner earning the opportunity for promotion to international hockey’s top tier.
New Zealand will compete in Pool B alongside Chile, Korea and France, as they prepare to defend their title in front of a home crowd.
Pool A will feature India, Japan, the United States and Uruguay.
The tournament format will see teams compete in pool play before progressing into semi-finals and classification matches, with the top sides advancing to the knockout stages.
Women’s match schedule (NZT):
· vs Korea – 15 June, 6:00pm
· vs Chile – 16 June, 6:00pm
· vs France – 18 June, 6:00pm
The Nations Cup represents a significant opportunity for the Vantage Black Sticks Women, not only to aim for another championship but to perform in front of a home crowd for the first time at a major international event in New Zealand since 2017.
Hosting the tournament provides a valuable platform for the team to build momentum and connection as a group, while also giving fans across the country the chance to experience world-class international hockey live.
All matches will be broadcast live and free on TVNZ+ for New Zealand viewers, ensuring fans across the country can follow the action.
However, fans are encouraged to get along to the North Harbour National Hockey Centre and support the team in person as they push for back-to-back titles on home soil.
Tickets are available HERE:
Full draw information HERE:
The Vantage Black Sticks Women will be looking to use the energy of a home tournament to drive their performance and push for back-to-back Nations Cup titles.