The 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands, commenced on August 15, 2026, with both men’s and women’s tournaments featuring 16 teams each. The men’s matches are taking place in Wavre, Belgium, while the women’s games are held in Amstelveen, Netherlands. Belgium’s men’s team and the Netherlands’ women’s team entered the tournament as favorites, both ranked No.1 in the world and coming off FIH Pro League triumphs. ([whathifi.com](https://www.whathifi.com/streaming-entertainment/how-to-watch-fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-free?utm_source=openai))
In the opening matches, the Belgian men’s team faced France, and the Dutch women’s team played against New Zealand. These fixtures set the tone for what promises to be an exciting tournament. ([whathifi.com](https://www.whathifi.com/streaming-entertainment/how-to-watch-fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-free?utm_source=openai))
In the NHL, the Chicago Blackhawks are preparing for the upcoming season without star forward Connor Bedard, who is expected to miss the first 14 to 21 games due to recovery from surgery. This absence will impact the team’s lineup and forward combinations as they adjust to his temporary departure. ([ca.sports.yahoo.com](https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/news/jack-daily-blackhawks-combos-red-155722411.html?utm_source=openai))
Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings are facing challenges in trading captain Dylan Larkin. Despite his trade request made in April, the team has yet to receive offers that meet their asking price, leaving Larkin’s future with the team uncertain. ([prohockeynews.com](https://prohockeynews.com/?utm_source=openai))
Looking ahead, the FIH Hockey World Cup continues through August 30, with teams vying for the prestigious title. The NHL preseason is set to begin in late September, with teams like the Blackhawks and Red Wings making strategic adjustments during the offseason. Fans can anticipate an exciting period of international and professional ice hockey action in the coming weeks. ([whathifi.com](https://www.whathifi.com/streaming-entertainment/how-to-watch-fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-free?utm_source=openai))
