The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has officially unveiled the schedule for the 2025–26 FIH Pro League, setting the stage for Pakistan’s long-awaited return to the highest tier of international hockey.
The upcoming season will see the Green Shirts face off against some of the world’s top teams, including arch-rivals India. According to the schedule, the much-anticipated clash between the two nations is set for June in England, offering both sides ample time to settle their sporting differences ahead of what promises to be a fiery encounter.
Pakistan will kick off their campaign on December 9 in Argentina, where they are slated to play the hosts and defending champions Netherlands. These matches will mark Pakistan’s debut appearance in the FIH Pro League.
In February 2026, the team will travel to Australia for the next leg of the tournament, where they will take on the hosts and Germany, two formidable opponents in world hockey.
June will see Pakistan shift focus to Europe, beginning with matches against Spain and Belgium from June 13 to 21. They will then wrap up their group stage campaign with two high-stakes fixtures in England, facing the home side and traditional rivals India from June 23 to 25.
FIH Pro League Schedule:
| Host Country | Dates | Teams Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Ireland | 9–14 December 2025 | Belgium, England, Germany |
| Argentina | 9–14 December 2025 | Argentina, Netherlands, Pakistan |
| Spain | 5–10 February 2026 | Spain, England, Netherlands |
| Australia | 10–15 February 2026 | Australia, Germany, Pakistan |
| India | 10–15 February 2026 | India, Argentina, Belgium |
| Australia | 20–25 February 2026 | Australia, India, Spain |
| England | 13–21 June 2026 | England, Argentina, Australia |
| Netherlands | 13–21 June 2026 | Netherlands, Germany, India |
| Belgium | 13–21 June 2026 | Belgium, Pakistan, Spain |
| Belgium | 23–28 June 2026 | Belgium, Australia, Netherlands |
| Germany | 23–28 June 2026 | Germany, Argentina, Spain |
| England | 23–28 June 2026 | England, India, Pakistan |
Pakistan’s inclusion in the FIH Pro League comes despite ongoing financial challenges. While off-field hurdles remain, the competition offers a vital opportunity for the national team to gain experience against elite opposition and rebuild its standing on the global stage.
The Pro League is not only a prestigious tournament featuring hockey powerhouses such as Australia, Belgium, Germany, England, Netherlands, Spain, Argentina, and India, it also carries significant stakes. The winning team will secure a direct qualification for the LA28 Olympic Games.
While expectations may be measured, Pakistan’s journey through the FIH Pro League marks a crucial step forward. The experience gained from competing at this level will be invaluable as the team looks to reclaim its legacy in international hockey.
