The Netherlands women are reigning World Cup, Olympic and Pro League champions ©Getty Images

The bidding process for two International Hockey Federation (FIH) World Cups in 2026 has been launched.

Men's and women's World Cups are both scheduled in 2026, and can now be bid for.

The deadline for submitting a bid is May 31.

The FIH Executive Board is due to decide to the successful bidders on November 3

An announcement is then scheduled at the FIH Congress on November 4 and 5, which will be an online event.

Belgium are the current holders of the FIH Hockey Men's World Cup ©Getty Images
Belgium are the current holders of the FIH Hockey Men's World Cup ©Getty Images

"The FIH Hockey World Cup, for men like for women, means a lot to the global hockey community, in particular athletes and fans," FIH chief executive officer Thierry Weil said.

"Therefore, we’re looking forward to receiving numerous bids to host these prestigious events, which will capture the attention of all hockey fans around the world and where legends will be made."

The FIH's two marquee World Cups are played every four years and feature 16 teams.

Spain and The Netherlands are set to host the next FIH Hockey Women's World Cup in July, while the next FIH Hockey Men's World Cup is due to be held in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela in India in January 2023.

Belgium are the reigning men's champions and The Netherlands the women's World Cup holders.