HC Oranje-Rood will host the ABN AMRO Euro Hockey League Men’s ROUND1 in Eindhoven from October 9th to 11th 2026, bringing the competition back to one of the EHL’s iconic locations after a seven-year break.
The Charles Roelslaan venue welcomed big crowds when it previously hosted the GRAND FINAL in both 2014 and 2019 as well as the 2017 KO16 and the club are thrilled to be back on this stage.
“We are incredibly proud that the Euro Hockey League is returning to Eindhoven and HC Oranje-Rood. Hosting Europe’s premier club hockey event is both an honour and a responsibility,” says HC Oranje-Rood chairperson Birgit Slaats.
“Together with our partners, our dedicated volunteers and the innovative Brainport region, we look forward to welcoming Europe’s best clubs and creating an outstanding experience that showcases the very best of international hockey, hospitality and our community.”
Echoing her thoughts, EHL Chairman Peter Elders added: “Oranje-Rood is one of the iconic Euro Hockey League clubs and so it is wonderful to return to Eindhoven to begin the 20th EHL season.
“Based in the heart of Brabant, the setup in the clubhouse, pitch and stands is perfect for showcasing our sport in the best possible way.”
Pictured at the launch of HC Oranje-Rood’s EHL ROUND1 hosting are: (back row, left to right): EuroHockey Director General Angus Kirkland, Nienke Nijenhuis, Managing Director of BrabantSport; HC Oranje-Rood’s Pieter Janssen; (front row, left to right): Remco van Dooren, Alderman for Sports, Municipality of Eindhoven; HC Oranje-Rood chairperson Birgit Slaats; EHL Chairman Peter Elders
The support of BrabantSport will be vital in bringing the event to life and Nienke Nijenhuis, Managing Director of BrabantSport, is thrilled to see the competition take place in the region: “The decision to bring the Euro Hockey League ROUND1 to Eindhoven this October is fantastic news for both the region and Dutch hockey.
“With Oranje-Rood as host, we are once again demonstrating that Brabant is home to world-class international sport.
“For us, success in elite sport is measured not only by medals, but also by the lasting impact an event leaves behind: inspiring the next generation of athletes, strengthening connections within the region, creating opportunities for talent, and generating lasting benefits for sport and society.
“We look forward to welcoming players, teams and supporters from across Europe to Eindhoven.”
Bas Maes, Minister for Sport for the province of North Brabant added: “With the opening round of the Euro Hockey League coming to Brabant, we once again reinforce our position as a region where elite sports and social impact go hand in hand.
“It is fantastic that Eindhoven will host both the opening round of the Euro Hockey League and the ASML Marathon Eindhoven in the same weekend. Together, these events demonstrate the power of sports: from inspiring elite performances to encouraging thousands of people to get active themselves.
“That is exactly what we stand for in Brabant. Through sports, we get people moving, both literally and figuratively, strengthen social connections and help build a healthier, stronger Brabant.”
Remco van Dooren, Alderman for Sports, Municipality of Eindhoven also welcomed the event: “We are proud to welcome the Euro Hockey League ROUND1 to Eindhoven.
“For three days, residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to enjoy hockey at the very highest European level. Top sporting events like this inspire people to get active and participate in sport, while further strengthening Eindhoven’s reputation as a leading sports city.
“We are also fortunate to have Oranje-Rood, a club that provides the perfect stage for an international event of this stature. And, of course, we hope Oranje-Rood will qualify for the EHL FINALS!”
Being based in Eindhoven also allows the EHL to benefit from the full expertise of the KNHB’s events team who will put together this event following this summer’s World Cup.
This year’s EHL ROUND1 sees the return of the group phase with 12 teams divided into four groups of three.
It will feature clubs from 11 different nations. They include hosts HC Oranje-Rood, Belgian debutants Royal Orée, England’s Wimbledon, 2017 champions Rot-Weiss Köln from Germany; Spain’s Real Club de Polo; French duo CAM92 and Lille MHC; Ireland’s Lisnagarvey; Scottish newcomers Edinburgh University; Czechia’s Slavia Prague, Austria’s SV Arminen and Rotweiss Wettingen.
Who plays who will be determined in EHL Men ROUND1 draw which takes place on July 15th. Follow the EHL’s social media channels and website for more information.
