From 2027 onwards, both the Euro Hockey League Men’s and Women’s competitions will feature FINAL12 events at Easter.
The updated schedule ensures an equal number of matches and a consistent competition structure across both genders at the showpiece EHL FINALS event.
The main effect of this change impacts the EHL Men’s schedule and format with the Easter tournament expanding from a FINAL8 to FINAL12.
October’s EHL Men’s KO16, meanwhile, will be replaced by ROUND1 where 12 teams will compete in four groups of three.
Eight teams will now qualify directly for the FINAL12 with places allocated to the:
Top two seeded teams from the top three ranked nations on the EHL Ranking Table
top‑seeded teams from nations ranked fourth and fifth on the EHL Ranking Table
The remaining four places will go to the winners of the each group at the ROUND1 event.
The ROUND1 event will feature:
Third seeded teams from the top three ranked nations on the EHL Ranking Table
Second seeded from nations ranked fourth and fifth on the EHL Ranking Table
Two teams from the nation ranked sixth on the EHL Ranking Table
One team from nations ranked seventh to eleventh on the EHL Ranking Table
An open draw will be used, ensuring equal opportunity for all teams to qualify for the FINAL12. The only restriction is that two teams from the same nation ranked sixth will not be drawn into the same pool.
The EHL Women’s competition will continue in its current FINAL12 format with the same allocation of qualifying spots per nation.
“These changes allow us to create balance, clarity, and equality across both EHL Men’s and Women’s competitions,” said EHL chairman Peter Elders.
“They also reward strong national performances while retaining open, competitive qualification pathways.”
EuroHockey confirmed that the revised format has been discussed with commercial partners and sponsors, who are supportive of the evolution of the competition.
The finalised EHL Ranking Tables will be published following completion of the EuroHockey Club Trophy II which take place on the Whitsun weekend from May 22nd to 25th.
