Ireland's Women's Hockey Team Set to Join FIH Pro League in 2025-26

Ireland's Historic Entry into the FIH Pro League

Lausanne [Switzerland], June 30: The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has announced that Ireland's national women's hockey team, known as the "Green Army," will participate in the FIH Hockey Pro League starting in the 2025-26 season. This marks the first occasion that the finalists from the 2018 FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup will compete in this prestigious league.

Ireland secured their spot by performing well in the FIH Hockey Nations Cup held in Chile earlier this year. Although New Zealand triumphed over Ireland in the final, Hockey New Zealand later opted not to accept the invitation to join the Pro League. Consequently, as per FIH regulations, the invitation was extended to Ireland, the runners-up, who have now confirmed their participation.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram expressed his congratulations to the Ireland Women’s team, stating, "It’s fantastic to welcome a new team into the ‘League of the Best.’ Their qualification through the FIH Hockey Nations Cup highlights its role as a significant pathway to the elite level of hockey."

In response to the announcement, Ireland Women’s Head Coach Gareth Grundie shared his excitement, saying, "I am thrilled that we have the chance to compete in the FIH Pro League for the 2025/26 Season 7. This opportunity reflects the high standard of play our team has achieved and is crucial for our development. It comes at a perfect time as we aim for qualification for the 2026 FIH World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium."

In contrast, India’s women’s team finished last in the 2024-25 Women’s Pro League season and will be relegated to the FIH Hockey Nations Cup.

On the men’s side, following the Black Sticks’ victory at the recent Nations Cup in Malaysia, FIH has invited Hockey New Zealand to rejoin the Pro League next season. However, the governing body is currently reviewing their options and has requested an extension until July 21 to confirm their participation.

If New Zealand decides against joining, Pakistan, the runners-up of the Men’s Nations Cup, will have the opportunity to step in for the 2025-26 FIH Hockey Pro League season.