Germany Defeat Spain 1–0 to Defend Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup Title

Germany have successfully defended their title to win the 2026 Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup, defeating Spain 1–0 in a thrilling final at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, Belgium.

Na afloop reikt hij de beker uit aan de wereldkampioen: Duitsland . 🏆 pic.twitter.com/u7LCeSFPCa

— Belgian Royal Palace (@MonarchieBe) August 30, 2026

The victory seals Germany’s place in hockey history as they claim their fourth Men’s Hockey World Cup title, moving level with Pakistan as the joint-most successful nation in the tournament’s history.

The decisive moment came in the 44th minute, when Germany’s Michel Struthoff found the breakthrough late in the third quarter. His goal proved enough to secure a narrow victory over Spain and complete Germany’s successful title defence.

Germany’s four World Cup triumphs have now come in 2002, 2006, 2023 and 2026. Their latest success also marks back-to-back World Cup victories after their 2023 triumph.
Germany now shares the record for the most Men’s Hockey World Cup titles with Pakistan, who won the tournament in 1971, 1978, 1982 and 1994.

The 1–0 victory over Spain therefore represents not only another major international title for Germany but also a historic achievement that puts them alongside Pakistan at the summit of men’s international hockey.