EXCITING times for Malaysian sports enthusiasts are about to begin. The Thomas Cup, Football World Cup, and Hockey World Cup will all be held within the next four months.
The Thomas Cup will be hosted by Denmark from April 24 to May 3. The Football World Cup will be played across three countries—Canada, the United States, and Mexico—from June 11 to July 19.
Finally, both the men’s and women’s Hockey World Cup will be held from August 15 to 30, co-hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium. Most Malaysians are interested in all three sports.
The Thomas Cup, scheduled to begin on April 24, will be closely watched by badminton-loving nations. Denmark, a badminton powerhouse, will enjoy home advantage and will be keen to repeat its 2016 victory.
More countries are now vying for top honours in badminton, as previous quality gaps have narrowed due to increased tournaments and improved training programmes. In the last decade, new winners such as Japan, India, and Denmark have emerged. Nations like South Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan (Chinese Taipei) are also in contention.
Regrettably, the Uber Cup is being played at the same time, which reduces the prominence of women’s badminton.
The tournament could be scheduled separately to give it greater attention and prestige. Cost considerations should not be the sole priority for the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
Another sport that will be closely watched is hockey, where more nations are now competitive due to the rise in astroturf facilities, better coaching, improved training programmes, and a new generation of players taking up the sport.
Both Belgium and the Netherlands, hockey powerhouses, will enjoy home-ground advantage, and either could emerge as champion.
Security will be a top priority for organisers of all three international tournaments, particularly in light of ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its potential spillover effects.
There is concern that terrorist attacks or disruptions could be attempted to destabilise events held in Europe and North America. Some of these regions have previously been targeted by groups seeking to create a climate of fear.
North America also faces specific challenges. Issues such as Khalistani militancy in Canada, as well as instability linked to drug cartels in Mexico following the reported death of cartel leader “El Mencho”, could pose risks.
The United States, given its involvement in tensions with Iran, may also be seen as a potential target by militant groups. All three host countries will need to remain on high alert, supported by strong intelligence and surveillance systems.
Apart from security concerns, there is also the likelihood of anti-war protests and demonstrations. Another potential challenge is the risk of heatwaves in North American venues.
Climate change has led to significantly higher summer temperatures, raising concerns about player safety and match conditions.
Football players have previously expressed frustration about playing in extreme heat, especially when match timings are adjusted to maximise global television audiences and commercial returns.
The decision by FIFA to spread matches across multiple countries requires strong coordination, particularly on security and logistics. The 2026 tournament will also mark the first time that 48 teams compete for the World Cup, expanding participation and making the “beautiful game” more inclusive.
Since Japan and South Korea co-hosted the tournament in 2002, FIFA has gradually moved towards multi-nation hosting, culminating in the three-country model for 2026.
While this expansion allows more nations to participate, it is notable that no African or Asian country has yet reached the final. Despite efforts to globalise the sport, competitive gaps remain at the highest level.
In today’s uncertain world, sport continues to offer moments of unity, entertainment, and escape. At a time marked by conflict, economic pressures, and rising living costs, these tournaments provide a welcome distraction.
Yet, they also unfold against a complex global backdrop—where events beyond the field may prove just as decisive as those on it.
V. Thomas is a Focus Malaysia viewer.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
- Focus Malaysia.
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