A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

A Message from the President

Ladies and gentlemen,
Welcome to the MIHWA World Cup 2026.
Ten years have passed since Bolzano/Merano 2016. There are many thoughts in my mind as I write these words, but above all, one simple phrase stays with me:
THANK YOU.
A simple word, yet one rich with meaning.
Over the years, so many people have said to me, “Thank you David,” or “Thank you MIHWA.” They thanked us because they were able to wear their national team jersey, because they had the opportunity to represent their country, or because they could take part in a World Cup they never imagined possible.
This makes me very happy, and it is a great honour. But I always say the same thing: none of this is the work of one person. Everything we have achieved has been possible because of teamwork. Without a team, there can be no success.
Personally, I must thank Gilbert Portier, Alain Blanchet, and Alberto Lastrucci for the trust they placed in me ten years ago. Without them, none of us would be here today. The journey began in Great Britain in 2010 with a fantastic vision, and together we have built it into a truly unique international event.
My thoughts also go immediately to my longest-serving collaborators: Isabella, Giulia, Aldo, and Pete, who have been beside me since 2016. To them I offer my heartfelt thanks for their hard work, patience, passion, loyalty, and invaluable support throughout this journey.
Today we return to the wonderful city of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria, Germany. I would like to thank the DRIV Federation and GaPa Tourism for their tremendous support and hospitality, which have made our return possible.
Every time I enter the Olympic Stadium, I feel something special. Hockey is everywhere, and it is a wonderful reminder of our sport’s history. I am convinced that the 2026 edition will be another memorable event. Thanks to our volunteers, sponsors, officials, and organising team, all national teams will compete in a first-class environment. I would also like to recognise our referee team, larger and stronger than ever, whose commitment has helped us improve many aspects of the tournament.
A warm welcome also goes to the new national teams joining us this year. Your presence continues to grow and strengthen the MIHWA family.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen will always hold a special place in MIHWA history. In 2025, it hosted the first Women’s Masters World Cup. Today, it becomes the first MIHWA World Cup to welcome participants from every inhabited continent, making this a truly global celebration of our sport.
Ten years ago, this achievement seemed impossible. Today it is reality because of all of you. Together, we have built something that goes beyond hockey—a worldwide family united by friendship, respect, passion, and the spirit of sport.
I would also like to thank World Skate for their continued support and collaboration. Working together allows us to move in the same direction and continue promoting and developing inline hockey around the world.
Finally, I wish to remember the friends we have lost over the years. They believed in our movement, supported our vision, and remain part of our MIHWA family. We carry their memory with us.
Dear Staff, Referees, Players, Managers, Timekeepers, Volunteers, Reporters, Medical Teams, and Supporters… Now it is your turn. Let the games begin!
Kind sport regards,

Dr. David Ninzatti
President, Masters Inline Hockey World Association