European Aquatics said in a statement that it was pleased to announce that Eindhoven has been selected as the host city for the 2028 European Aquatics Women’s Water Polo Championships. The decision reflects Eindhoven’s strong track record in hosting major sporting events, its culture of innovation, and the Royal Dutch Swimming Federation’s (KNZB) continued commitment to the growth and development of aquatic sports.

The Championships will take place at the renovated Pieter van den Hoogenband Swimming Stadium, which successfully hosted the 2024 European Women’s Water Polo Championships. Building on that success, the KNZB, the City of Eindhoven, BrabantSport, and their partners are committed to delivering a world-class event that combines elite competition with innovation, fan engagement, and meaningful social impact, while further strengthening the profile of women’s water polo across Europe.

Eindhoven offers excellent accessibility, modern infrastructure, and a wide range of accommodation options, making it an ideal destination for athletes, officials, and fans from across the continent.

The 2028 Championships aim to:

• Promote gender equality and raise the profile of women’s water polo.
• Inspire youth participation through educational programmes, clinics, and community initiatives.
• Strengthen grassroots development and create a lasting legacy for water polo in the region.

The Netherlands has a proud and successful water polo tradition. In recent years, the Dutch women’s national team has enjoyed remarkable success, winning gold at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, capturing the European title at the 2024 European Women’s Water Polo Championships in Eindhoven, successfully defending that title in Funchal in 2026, and securing the bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Antonio Silva, President of European Aquatics, said:

“On behalf of European Aquatics, I am delighted to congratulate Eindhoven and the Royal Dutch Swimming Federation on being selected to host the 2028 European Women’s Water Polo Championships. This event will not only showcase the highest level of competition but also promote gender equality, inspire young people through dedicated educational programmes, and strengthen grassroots participation. We are confident that the Championships will leave a lasting legacy in the region. I would like to thank our Dutch partners for once again demonstrating their commitment to delivering outstanding European Aquatics events and advancing the values of our sport across Europe.”

Hayke Veldman, President of the Royal Dutch Swimming Federation, said:

“Following the successful organisation of the 2024 European Women’s Water Polo Championships, we are extremely proud that European Aquatics has once again entrusted Eindhoven and the Netherlands with hosting a major international water polo event. The 2028 Championships will bring Europe’s top teams to the Netherlands while providing a unique platform for women’s sport, talent development, and social impact. Hosting a European Championship on home soil offers our athletes a special opportunity to compete in front of their own supporters on the road to the 2028 Olympic Games. At the same time, we hope this event will inspire a new generation to discover water polo and aquatic sports. Together with our partners, we are committed to delivering a championship that creates a lasting impact both within sport and across society.”