The Royal Belgian Hockey Association (KBHB) has confirmed the 18-player squad representing co-hosts Belgium (Red Lions) at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. Playing before home fans at Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre (10,000 capacity), head coach Michel van den Heuvel has selected a squad boasting 3,140 cumulative international caps as Belgium aims to reclaim the World Cup trophy won in 2018.
Who is selected in Belgium's 18-player World Cup roster?
Head coach Michel van den Heuvel has selected a veteran roster featuring international winners:
- Goalkeepers: Vincent Vanasch (274 caps), Loic Van Doren (56 caps)
- Defenders: Arthur Van Doren (234 caps), Alexander Hendrickx (186 caps), Loรฏck Luypaert (292 caps), Gauthier Boccard (268 caps)
- Midfielders: Victor Wegnez (178 caps), Felix Denayer (C - 382 caps), Antoine Kina (114 caps), John-John Dohmen (468 caps)
- Forwards: Florent van Aubel (284 caps), Tom Boon (342 caps), Cรฉdric Charlier (310 caps), Nicolas De Kerpel (112 caps)
๐ Belgium Red Lions Veteran Core Metrics
| Player | Caps | World Cups | Career Goals | Primary Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John-John Dohmen | 468 | 5th | 42 | Olympic Gold (2020), WC Gold (2018) |
| Felix Denayer (C) | 382 | 5th | 48 | Olympic Gold (2020), WC Gold (2018) |
| Tom Boon | 342 | 4th | 142 | Olympic Gold (2020), WC Gold (2018) |
| Vincent Vanasch | 274 | 4th | N/A (GK) | 3x FIH Goalkeeper of the Year |
What makes Belgium a favorite in Pool B at Belfius Hockey Arena?
With world-class defender Arthur Van Doren marshalling deep outlets and Alexander Hendrickx anchoring set pieces (132 international PC goals), Belgium possesses experience across lines. Competing in Pool B alongside Germany, France, and Malaysia, Belgium plays its key group fixture against defending champions Germany on August 17 in Wavre. For more fixture details, view our Belgium Schedule Hub.
What broadcast channels will air Belgium's home matches?
Supporters in Belgium can access live coverage across public networks:
- Flemish Broadcast (VRT): Sporza will broadcast all Red Lions matches live on VRT 1 and stream digitally via the Sporza app.
- French Broadcast (RTBF): Tipik will air matches on television, with live streaming on RTBF Auvio.
- Stadium Parking Note: Spectators driving to Wavre should utilize the Wavre North P+R lot and take free venue shuttles.
Track group results on our Pool B Page and follow previews for Germany vs Belgium.