South African Hockey has extended its heartfelt thanks to the people of South Africa following the successful hosting of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup in Cape Town.
Staged at Hartleyvale Stadium from 11–20 June 2026, the tournament brought together some of the world’s leading hockey nations and delivered a memorable celebration of international hockey, national pride and South African hospitality.
From the opening whistle to the final day, South African supporters turned up in outstanding numbers, creating an atmosphere that lifted the event and reminded the world of the passion, warmth and energy that exists within the South African hockey community.
The tournament was marked by packed stands, unforgettable moments, world-class competition and a powerful sense of unity. For the South African Men, playing in front of a passionate home crowd provided a special platform to represent the country with pride, fight and heart.
SA Hockey President Deon Morgan paid tribute to everyone who made the event possible.
“This tournament belonged to South Africa,” said Morgan. “To every supporter who bought a ticket, waved a flag, brought their voice, shared a post, volunteered their time, watched on SABC Plus or helped us showcase our country to the world, thank you. You turned Hartleyvale into something truly special.”
Morgan added that the success of the event was about far more than results on the field.
“The FIH Nations Cup showed what is possible when our hockey family, our partners and our supporters come together. We saw full stands, emotional moments, young players inspired, and a South African team carried by the energy of its people. That is what makes hockey in this country so powerful.”
SA Hockey also expressed its appreciation to the City of Cape Town, tournament partners, sponsors, broadcasters, media, officials, volunteers, medical teams, venue staff, schools, clubs and every stakeholder who played a role in delivering the event.
The tournament once again highlighted South Africa’s ability to host major international hockey events with professionalism, passion and a uniquely South African spirit.
SA Hockey congratulates France on being crowned champions and commends all participating nations for contributing to a superb festival of hockey.
A special word of congratulations is also extended to South African goalkeeper Cullin de Jager, who was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament, a proud moment for the national team and for South African hockey.
SA Hockey now looks forward to building on the momentum created by the FIH Hockey Nations Cup as the national teams continue their journey toward future international competitions in a test series against Malaysia.
To the fans, families, clubs, schools, sponsors and supporters across the country: thank you for standing with South African hockey.
This was hockey at its best. This was South Africa at its loudest. This was More Than Hockey.
