More success for Kiwi officials at FIH World Cup

Even more success for our Kiwi officials at the 2026 FIH World Cup, as umpire Gareth Greenfield has been appointed to the men's final as an on-field official.

Greenfield follows Amber Church, who was appointed to the women's final on Sunday morning, and who performed admirably in a tight game that was decided on shootouts.

He becomes the first New Zealander to take charge of a Men's World Cup final, a crowning achievement for Greenfield, who umpired his first international back in 2011.

The appointment follows his role at the 2024 Olympic semi-final, which he umpired alongside Dutchman Coen van Bunge, the same official he will be paired with for the final in Wavre, Belgium.

Gareth will be joined in officiating the men's final by fellow New Zealanders David and Jackie Tomlinson, who have been appointed Video Umpire and Timing Judge respectively, following solid performances at the World Cup.

Speaking before the tournament, Greenfield was full of pride speaking about what it means to represent Aotearoa on the international stage.

"To have the chance to fly the flag for Kiwi officiating at the World Cup is an absolute privilege. I'm following in the footsteps of some true greats of Kiwi officiating who put New Zealand on the map. It's an honour to ensure New Zealand officials continue to fly the flag on the world stage, and I'd love to set a standard that ensures those who share this same privilege in future are well regarded within the international hockey family."

Today's appointment sees all four of New Zealand's officials at this year's World Cup appointed to a final, further emphasising the strength of officiating pathways in New Zealand.

The final will feature defending champions Germany, who take on Spain, a side yet to win a World Cup title. Pass-back is at 2:30am on Monday morning (NZT).