10 Countries where field hockey is most popular

When I consider field hockey’s global appeal, I’m impressed by how this sport, with its raw intensity and strategic depth, captures followers worldwide. Because of my interest in field hockey, I’ve been intrigued to learn which countries are the most enthusiastic about the sport. Here is a list of the top 10 Countries where field hockey is most popular.

Join me on a voyage across the top ten nations where field hockey reigns supreme, each with its flavour and passion for the sweet science.

Countries where field hockey is most popular

10. Switzerland is the 10th Country where field hockey is the most popular sport.

Field hockey in Switzerland has a small but committed following. While not as popular as football or ice hockey, hockey has a substantial following, particularly in cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne. The Swiss Hockey Federation, which was founded in 1925, regulates the sport’s development and organises national leagues and championships. Switzerland routinely competes in international events, despite not being among the world’s top teams. Clubs like Rotweiss Wettingen and HC Olten are well-known in the Swiss hockey scene, helping to enhance the sport’s popularity among both players and fans.

9. Pakistan is among the Countries where field hockey is most popular.

Hockey is Pakistan’s national sport, with a long history of success and popularity. Pakistan is one of the world’s most successful national hockey teams, having won four Hockey World Cups (1971, 1978, 1982, and 1994) and three Olympic gold medals (1960, 1968, and 1984). The Pakistan national team has been recognised as the best in the world on several occasions and is noted for its heated rivalry with neighbouring India, having faced them in 20 major event finals.

Despite cricket’s growing popularity, hockey continues to maintain a special position in Pakistani sports culture, with the National Hockey Stadium in Lahore being considered the world’s largest international hockey stadium. While the sport has encountered some obstacles in recent years, efforts are underway to resurrect its appeal and restore Pakistan’s lost reputation in hockey.

8. Argentina is the 8th-ranked Country where field hockey is the most popular sport.

Field hockey is regarded as a national asset in Argentina, particularly among women. Our squad, Las Leonas, is a powerhouse, constantly placing first and winning Olympic gold and World Cups. This success has translated into a significant presence at the grassroots level, with many schools and clubs offering the sport, making hockey one of the most popular options for girls.

7. Australia is the 7th Country where field hockey is the most popular sport.

Hockey is a reasonably popular sport in Australia. We commonly refer to it as “hockey.” The season usually begins in March and April, during the winter months. As of 2020, Hockey Australia has 162,176 registered players, with a fairly even balance of 52% female and 48% male participation. Australia is proud to have two of the world’s top national hockey teams: the Kookaburras (men’s) and the Hockeyroos (women’s). Both teams have had incredible success, winning Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and World Cup titles on several occasions. The sport’s attraction is enhanced by consistent international performances, making hockey an important element of Australia’s sporting environment.

6. Ireland is among the Countries where field hockey is most popular.

Field hockey has a long history in Ireland and is gaining popularity among fans. Hockey Ireland governs both the men’s and women’s national teams, as it is one of the country’s oldest sports. Ireland’s women’s team has achieved great success, most notably reaching the final of the 2018 Women’s Hockey World Cup, which increased the sport’s popularity. Many schools and groups across the country actively participate in hockey, helping to develop the sport at the grassroots level. The sport receives extensive media coverage, particularly during international events, which helps to raise its profile and attract new players and fans.

5. Belgium is the 5th-ranked Country where field hockey is the most popular sport.

Over the last ten years, hockey has grown in popularity in Belgium. The Belgian men’s national team, nicknamed as the Red Lions, has been rated first in the world since 2019, having won the 2018 World Cup, the 2020 Olympics, and barely losing the 2023 World Cup in a thrilling penalty shootout. Since 2008, club membership has increased by an average of 8% per year, reaching 53,000 active members today[5]. There are already 107 hockey clubs in Belgium, with 20 new ones formed in the last five years.

The hockey community, including family and friends, numbers about 175,000 individuals. As a hockey player for over 30 years, I’ve seen the sport in Belgium evolve from grass pitches to the current artificial surfaces, which make it safer and less likely to bounce unexpectedly. Hockey in Belgium provides an interesting and expanding community for players of all ages, with a diverse club selection based on location, environment, facilities, and costs.

4. New Zealand is among the Countries where field hockey is most popular.

I’ve been playing hockey in New Zealand for several years, and it’s interesting to see how it compares to other sports. While not the ultimate top dog like rugby, hockey has a large community. There are more than 40,000 registered players, with both men and women well represented, and participation is rapidly increasing. It’s even considered a national sport, with games held throughout the country. Although professional players are scarce, this does not diminish our enthusiasm; we are all passionate about the sport!

3. Sweden is the 3rd Country where field hockey is the most popular sport.

Field hockey has been a popular sport in Sweden since the early 1900s when Canadian immigrants first introduced it. Initially played by foreigners and students, it quickly gained popularity among the Swedish people. Hockey is now an important part of Swedish sports culture, with a large fan base at all levels of play. The Swedish Ice Hockey Association, established in 1922, was instrumental in organising and regulating the sport, setting the path for its expansion and development. Sweden has a regular supply of outstanding players who have thrived at the international level, making hockey a national passion.

2. Canada is the 2nd-ranked Country where field hockey is the most popular sport.

Hockey, while not as popular as ice hockey, has a strong fan base in Canada. As someone who has witnessed the sport’s growth, I can tell you that it is especially popular among women and is played at numerous schools and institutions around the country. Hockey Canada, the sport’s governing body, promotes both national and international events, with Canadian teams competing in multiple World Cups and Olympic Games. The sport is particularly popular in British Columbia and Ontario, where numerous clubs and leagues are operating. Although hockey receives less media exposure than ice hockey, its player and fan base continue to survive and grow.

1. The Netherlands is the top Country where field hockey is the most popular sport.

Field hockey is quite popular in the Netherlands, with over 350,000 people representing various teams throughout the country. In terms of popularity and participation, club hockey follows only football, with around one in every 67 Dutch inhabitants participating. The Netherlands has invested much in the sport’s development, with an amazing 880 artificial hockey pitches around the country. This investment has paid off, as the Dutch men’s and women’s national teams have had considerable success, winning numerous Olympic gold medals and World Cup crowns. The aggressive, technical style of play that has become the “DNA” of Dutch hockey has attracted viewers both domestically and internationally. With a long history of producing world-class players, the Netherlands’ hockey prowess is absolutely impressive given its small population.

Where is field hockey most popular?

Field hockey is most popular in the Netherlands. The country has a long history and strong tradition in sports, with a highly competitive national league, multiple clubs, and a devoted fan base. The Dutch national teams, both men and women, have regularly been ranked among the top in the world, demonstrating the country’s dominance and enthusiasm for hockey.

How many countries is field hockey played in?

Hockey is played in more than 100 nations worldwide. The sport is very popular, especially in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas. It is administered globally by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), which organises international championships and supports the sport’s development in various countries.

Do they play field hockey in Europe?

Yes, hockey is commonly played throughout Europe. The sport is extremely popular in various European nations, notably the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, England, and Spain. These countries have strong domestic leagues, numerous clubs, and devoted fans. The European Hockey Federation (EHF) regulates the sport in the region, organising championships such as the Euro Hockey Championships and the Euro Hockey League, which feature elite teams and players from all across Europe.

Conclusion

After exploring the dynamic world of hockey, I am struck by its vast diversity and enthusiasm across continents and cultures. From technical skills in the Netherlands and Belgium to impassioned fans in Argentina and Pakistan, hockey connects these top 10 countries in their love of the sport. Canada and Australia’s competitive attitude, paired with Sweden and Switzerland’s growing interest, demonstrates a global love for the game. Meanwhile, New Zealand and Ireland demonstrate a balance of tradition and innovation, reflecting the sport’s dynamic progression. This voyage through the world’s hockey capitals highlights not only the sport’s international appeal but also the distinct cultural flavours that each country brings to the pitch.

Community

For making this list we used the help of Google Trends. If you want you can check each country’s field hockey popularity by searching about them on the Internet. You can use various Internet tools to verify this.

Tell us what you think about this ranking of the top 10 Countries where field hockey is most popular. If you find any mistake with our ranking or the post you can comment below. We would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on this topic. Share your perspective by leaving a comment below, and don’t forget to check out some of the related posts for more information about the most followed athletes from different sports on social media.

1. 10 Countries where tennis is most popular
2. 10 most followed field hockey Players on Instagram

Question and Answer