Joep de Mol to Captain HC Oranje-Rood as They Host the Euro Hockey League 2026
Dutch Olympic gold medallist Joep de Mol will captain HC Oranje-Rood as the club hosts the opening stage of the ABN AMRO Euro Hockey League (EHL) Men's Round 1 from 9–11 October 2026.
The Euro Hockey League (EHL) is widely regarded as the pinnacle of European club hockey, bringing together the continent's best teams in an intense knockout competition. This year's opening round returns to Eindhoven, with HC Oranje-Rood welcoming Europe's elite for the first time since hosting the EHL Finals in 2019.
For Y1, the tournament has an extra layer of excitement, with Joep de Mol leading the home side into one of the biggest weekends on the club hockey calendar.
HC Oranje-Rood Brings the Euro Hockey League Back to Eindhoven
The announcement marks another major milestone for HC Oranje-Rood, one of the Netherlands' most respected hockey clubs.
Having previously hosted multiple Euro Hockey League events—including the 2014 and 2019 Finals and the 2017 KO16—the club has built a reputation for delivering world-class hockey events and incredible atmospheres.
Now, the Euro Hockey League 2026 returns to Eindhoven as clubs from across Europe compete for a place in the latter stages of the competition.
With thousands of fans expected across the weekend, the event promises elite hockey, passionate supporters and some of the biggest names in the sport.
Olympic Champion Joep de Mol Leads the Hosts
As captain of HC Oranje-Rood, Joep de Mol will be at the heart of the action.
The Dutch international defender has enjoyed an outstanding career, including Olympic gold with the Netherlands, and continues to be one of Europe's most respected defenders.
His leadership will be crucial as Oranje-Rood looks to make home advantage count against Europe's strongest club sides.
For Y1, it's another proud moment to see one of our sponsored athletes leading his club on one of hockey's biggest stages.
Why the Euro Hockey League Matters
Often compared to football's UEFA Champions League, the Euro Hockey League represents the highest level of club hockey in Europe.
Featuring league champions and top-ranked clubs from across the continent, every fixture is packed with international stars, Olympic medallists and world-class talent.
For hockey fans, it offers the chance to watch the very best players compete in high-pressure knockout hockey, while clubs battle for European glory.
Y1 Athletes Competing at the Highest Level
At Y1, we're proud to support athletes performing at every level of the game—from grassroots hockey to Olympic champions and European club hockey.
The Euro Hockey League continues to showcase many of the world's best players, with Y1 athletes competing across some of Europe's biggest clubs.
We'll be following Joep de Mol and the rest of our Y1 athletes throughout the competition, bringing you exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content and the latest EHL news as the tournament unfolds.
Whether you're following HC Oranje-Rood, supporting your local club or simply love elite hockey, the 2026 Euro Hockey League promises another unforgettable season.
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