England To Host 2018 Hockey World Cup
The president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), Leandro Negre, has confirmed that England will host the 2018 women’s Hockey World Cup while India will stage the men’s event.
Both countries were chosen after beating Malaysia and New Zealand during the official bid process. The Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which is set to open next year, will stage the event.
The 2018 World Cup will be part of the UK Sport’s £27m Gold Event Series which aims to build upon the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympics which will also see England host the EuroHockey Championships in 2015.
Helen Grant, Britain’s Minister for Sport and Tourism, said: ‘As a life-long hockey fan I’m delighted that England Hockey’s bid has been successful and I know this country will deliver a truly outstanding tournament on the Olympic Park. The 2018 Women’s World Cup will give us an opportunity to take the women’s game to new heights, and inspire both women and children to participate.’
Negre said he was impressed by the quality of both the winning bids: ‘I wish to offer my sincere congratulations to England Hockey and Hockey India on their successful bids to host the Hockey World Cups 2018. The quality of both bids was truly extraordinary, and the FIH is greatly looking forward to bringing its top properties to England and India.’
