Ireland's 'Green Army' Joins FIH Pro League in Historic First

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) has officially confirmed that Ireland's national team, known as the "Green Army," will participate in the FIH Hockey Pro League's 2025-26 season. This marks the first-ever entry of Ireland into the prestigious league of top-tier hockey teams.

Ireland earned their place in the league after being the runners-up in the FIH Hockey Nations Cup held earlier this year in Chile. Although New Zealand had initially won the event, they declined the invitation to join the Pro League, allowing Ireland to step in. FIH President Tayyab Ikram has extended congratulations to Ireland, highlighting the significance of their qualification as a stepping stone to the elite ranks of hockey.

The Irish team's head coach, Gareth Grundie, expressed his excitement and recognized the league participation as a pivotal opportunity for the team. As they prepare for the 2026 FIH World Cup, this exposure to high-level international competition is seen as crucial to their development. Meanwhile, on the men's side, New Zealand's ongoing decision-making process regarding their Pro League participation might open the door for Pakistan to join, should New Zealand opt out.

(With inputs from agencies.)