FIH HOCKEY WORLD CUP FIELD SETUP: REQUIREMENTS & EQUIPMENT STANDARDS
As the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium Netherlands 2026 approaches, attention turns not only to the athletes but also to the meticulous standards behind the scenes - especially the field setup. For international tournaments, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) enforces strict specifications regarding both the field construction and the equipment used.
This article provides an overview of the official requirements for a hockey pitch that qualifies for FIH Hockey World Cup matches.
Field preparation for FIH Hockey World Cup
To host a FIH Hockey World Cup-level match, the field must meet specific technical, structural, and environmental standards.
🔹 Field Dimensions & Layout
- The playing field is typically 91.40m by 55.00m with run-off areas and operational zones surrounding the main field.
Orientation of the field is preferably North/South with a maximum deviation of ±15 degrees.
🔹 Surface Standards
- The field surface should use FIH Global Category Approved hockey turf. This involves preparing a suitable base platform with proper drainage, edging, and irrigation systems.
🔹 Irrigation System
- Irrigation is critical, ensuring the turf remains uniformly watered during play without ponding water. Backup manual watering systems should also be available.
🔹 Field Certification
- The field must be tested and certified by FIH at least 4 to 12 months before the tournament.
- Certification includes testing for:
- Ball roll consistency
- Shock absorption
- Surface evenness
- Grip and traction
 FIH Field testing AAA |  FIH Field testing ball roll |
 FIH Field testing ball rebound |  FIH Field testing traction rotational resistance |
Photos credit: AcoustoScan
🔹 Training & Warm-Up Fields
- These should follow similar construction and turf standards, though FIH allows slight relaxations for training facilities.
Partnering with an FIH Preferred Supplier is strongly recommended to ensure that the long-term investment, responsibilities of facility owners and event organizers are fully supported through quality assurance and compliance with FIH standards.
Equipment Requirements for FIH World Cup Fields
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All items must be installed and maintained to exact specifications to ensure player safety and fairness.
Essential Field Hockey Equipment:
- FIH Approved Class 1 hockey goals.
- Two FIH Approved team shelters on the same side of the field near the center line.
- A FIH Approved Technical Officials Booth.
- Corner flags placed correctly.
- Side-line fencing at least 1.0m high for player and spectator safety.
- An irrigation system including flexible or movable sprinklers and large bore hoses for maintenance.
- Sports lighting compliant with FIH TV3 category for competition fields with recommendation for TV1 class for top-tier events.
- Emergency vehicle access to the field must be maintained at all times.
These equipment standards are critical to the professionalism, safety, and broadcast readiness of any international field hockey event.
Why Standards Matter
Every element of the FIH-certified hockey pitch - from the turf to the goalposts - is essential for ensuring consistent gameplay, protecting player safety, supporting fair officiating and delivering a world-class spectator experience, both on-site and on screen.
International hockey equipment supplier
As a leading sports manufacturer, we provide FIH-approved equipment that meet the demands of top-tier hockey events worldwide. With the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 drawing global attention, now is the time to ensure your facility is prepared to meet the highest standards in the game. Prepare athletes for big game days with training environment that reflects competition field.
Get in touch with our team to get a tailored consultation for your hockey projects at export@sodexsport.com
