EHF EURO 2026 Men's Handball: Your Complete Match Calendar and Guide to the Scandinavian Showdown
From January 15 to February 1, 2026, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden will host the 17th edition of the Men's EHF EURO. With 24 nations competing, six explosive groups, and innovations like the RefCam, this is your chance to experience European handball at its finest. Ready to follow your national team? Here's everything you need to know.
Key takeaways:
- Format: Preliminary round (6 groups of 4 teams, Jan 15-25) → Main round (top 3 per group) → Finals in Herning, Denmark
- Teams: 24 nations including hosts Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and defending champions France
- Innovations: RefCam debuts in semifinals (referee's-eye-view), live streaming on EHF TV, tickets now available
- Stakes: Qualification pathway to 2027 World Championship and 2028 Olympics, plus the "Pure Greatness" sustainability initiative
Why EHF EURO 2026 Will Make History
For the second time in the tournament's history, three nations are joining forces to host the Men's EHF EURO. Denmark, Norway, and Sweden last shared hosting duties in 2020, and now they're back with an even more ambitious vision.
The final will take place at the iconic Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning, Denmark. Oslo's Telenor Arena will welcome fans in Norway, while Sweden spreads the action across Malmö, Kristianstad, and Göteborg. This tri-nation format means more venues, more atmosphere, and more opportunities for fans across Scandinavia to witness world-class handball.
France enters as defending champions after their thrilling 33-31 victory over Denmark in the 2024 final. They'll be looking to achieve a rare back-to-back title defense, but the hosts won't make it easy. Denmark and Sweden consistently rank among the world's elite, while Norway is building momentum as a serious contender on home soil.
The draw conducted in June 2025 revealed six groups packed with potential drama. Traditional powerhouses like Spain and Croatia will battle emerging forces. Every match matters in this format, and early upsets can reshape the entire tournament.
The RefCam Revolution
One innovation is generating particular excitement. The RefCam, a camera mounted on referees, will debut during the semifinal stage on January 29. This technology offers viewers an unprecedented perspective, putting them right in the heart of the action from the referee's point of view.
Imagine seeing a fast break develop, watching players jostle for position, and experiencing the intensity of crucial calls exactly as the referee does. It's a game-changer for broadcast coverage and fan engagement.
The RefCam is part of a broader push by the EHF to bring fans closer to the sport. Combined with comprehensive EHF TV coverage, real-time statistics, and an enhanced mobile app, following the tournament has never been easier or more immersive.
Tournament Format Explained
The EHF EURO 2026 follows a proven format that rewards consistency while allowing room for dramatic comebacks.
The preliminary round runs from January 15 to 25. Twenty-four teams are divided into six groups of four. Each team plays three matches against their group opponents. The top three teams from each group advance to the main round, while fourth-placed teams compete in a separate bracket for positions 19-24.
The main round takes place from January 27 to 29. The 18 advancing teams are reorganized into two groups of six. Crucially, teams carry forward the points earned against other qualifiers from their preliminary group. This means every preliminary round result can have lasting consequences.
The knockout phase begins on January 29 with the semifinals. The top two teams from each main round group compete for a spot in the final. A third-place match determines the bronze medal, and the championship final crowns the new European champions on February 1 in Herning.
In total, approximately 60 matches will be played across the tournament. All will be available for live viewing on EHF TV, with highlights accessible for free.
The 24 Qualified Nations
The qualification process, running from January 2023 to May 2025, determined which 24 nations would compete. The field represents a mix of traditional powers, rising forces, and inspiring underdog stories.
The three host nations, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, qualified automatically. France secured their spot as defending champions. These four teams form the tournament's top seeds.
The established powers are well represented. Spain, finalists in 2024, bring their trademark technical excellence. Croatia, 2024 runners-up, possess one of handball's most talented squads. Germany and Hungary combine experience with emerging young talent. Slovenia and Portugal have proven they can compete with anyone on their day.
Several nations arrive with genuine upset potential. Iceland's compact but skilled roster always causes problems. Serbia's physical style can overwhelm opponents. Romania, the Netherlands, Poland, and Ukraine each have players capable of match-winning performances.
The tournament also welcomes nations at various stages of their handball development. Georgia, Italy, and the Czech Republic are building competitive programs. Montenegro and North Macedonia bring Balkan passion. Switzerland, the Faroe Islands, and Austria complete the 24-team field, each hoping to spring surprises and inspire the next generation of players in their countries.
Key Matches to Mark in Your Calendar
Certain fixtures stand out across the preliminary round schedule.
January 15 brings opening day excitement across all six venues. Norway versus Ukraine in Oslo carries emotional weight beyond handball. Sweden-Slovenia in Kristianstad and Spain-Montenegro in Göteborg offer contrasting tactical styles. France begins their title defense with expectations sky-high.
Official Schedule & Recent Results
| DATE + TIME | RESULTS | ROUND | PHASE |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18:00 CET |
 Iceland0 - 0
Italy
Upcoming
 |
Preliminary Round | Group B |
| 20:00 CET |
 Portugal0 - 0
Romania
Upcoming
 |
Preliminary Round | Group B |
| 18:00 CET |
 Slovenia0 - 0
Montenegro
Upcoming
 |
Preliminary Round | Group B |
| 20:30 CET |
 Germany0 - 0
Austria
Upcoming
 |
Preliminary Round | Group A |
| 20:30 CET |
 Norway0 - 0
Ukraine
Upcoming
 |
Preliminary Round | Group A |
| 18:00 CET |
 France0 - 0
Czechia
Upcoming
 |
Preliminary Round | Group E |
| 20:30 CET |
 Spain0 - 0
Serbia
Upcoming
 |
Preliminary Round | Group E |
| 16:00 CET |
Austria 34 - 33
Switzerland
QP#2
 |
Qualifiers Phase 2 | Group 2 |
| 18:00 CET |
 Croatia30 - 20
Luxembourg
QP#2
 |
Qualifiers Phase 2 | Group 5 |
| 16:00 CET |
Czechia 25 - 22
Belgium
QP#2
 |
Qualifiers Phase 2 | Group 3 |
| 20:00 CET |
 Faroe Islands35 - 27
Ukraine
QP#2
|
Qualifiers Phase 2 | Group 4 |
January 21 concludes the preliminary round with decisive matches. Denmark versus Croatia in Oslo is the day's headline. Germany-Hungary in Malmö and Sweden-Portugal in Kristianstad could determine group winners. Every result shapes the main round picture.
The main round from January 27-29 condenses drama as 18 teams compete for four semifinal spots. Matches come thick and fast, and accumulated fatigue becomes a factor.
January 29's semifinals in Herning mark the RefCam debut. The third-place match on January 31 and the championship final on February 1 complete the tournament at Jyske Bank Boxen.
How to Follow EHF EURO 2026
Multiple options exist for following the tournament, whether you're planning to attend in person or watch from home.
Stream Every Game Live
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EHF TV provides comprehensive streaming coverage. Highlights packages are available free of charge, while full match coverage requires a subscription. The platform works across devices, making it easy to follow the action wherever you are.
Tickets are available now through the official portal. Prices start from €15 per match, with group packages offering value for those planning to attend multiple games. Oslo's Telenor Arena holds approximately 9,000 fans, while Herning's Jyske Bank Boxen accommodates 12,000. Swedish venues vary in capacity but all promise electric atmospheres.
The official EHF website and mobile app provide real-time statistics, news updates, and push notifications for your favorite teams. Following official social media channels ensures you won't miss breaking news, behind-the-scenes content, or viral moments from the tournament.
For those traveling to Scandinavia, the three host nations have coordinated transportation options with sustainability in mind. Public transit connections between venues, carbon offset programs, and eco-friendly stadium operations reflect the "Pure Greatness" sustainability initiative that underpins the tournament.
The Bigger Picture: What's at Stake
Beyond the trophy, EHF EURO 2026 carries significant implications for participating nations.
Performance at the European Championship influences qualification pathways for the 2027 World Championship. Strong showings can secure advantageous seeding positions and avoid difficult qualification groups.
Looking further ahead, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics loom on the horizon. European Championship results factor into the complex qualification matrix that determines which nations compete for Olympic gold. For many players, this EURO represents a crucial step toward their Olympic dreams.
For the sport itself, a successful tri-nation hosting demonstrates that collaborative models can deliver exceptional tournaments. Scandinavia's passionate handball culture, combined with first-class venues and organizational expertise, sets a template for future editions.
Predictions and Storylines to Watch
France enters as favorites to retain their title. Their 2024 triumph showcased a squad combining experience and youth, physical power and technical finesse. Coach Guillaume Gille has built a system that maximizes French handball's traditional strengths while incorporating modern tactical innovations.
Denmark's quest for redemption after their 2024 final heartbreak provides compelling narrative tension. Playing knockout rounds in Herning, where they suffered that defeat, adds psychological complexity. The Danish squad remains among Europe's most talented, and home support could prove decisive.
Norway's host nation journey represents perhaps the tournament's most intriguing storyline. Norwegian handball has progressed steadily, and competing in Oslo offers a unique opportunity. Can home advantage propel them to a medal?
Spain's consistency makes them perpetual contenders. They rarely produce poor tournaments and always threaten deep runs. Croatia's array of individual talent could coalesce into championship-winning form. Germany's young players continue gaining experience and could emerge as dark horses.
Watch for individual star performances that capture imagination. The tournament will showcase the world's best handball players in high-pressure situations. Emerging talents will announce themselves on the continental stage. Veterans will demonstrate why experience matters in knockout competition.
What to Expect
The Men's EHF EURO 2026 promises three weeks of exceptional handball across three passionate host nations. The format guarantees meaningful matches from opening day through the final. Innovations like RefCam enhance the viewing experience. Sustainability initiatives demonstrate the sport's commitment to responsible event management.
Twenty-four nations will compete for continental glory. Some will exceed expectations. Others will fall short of their ambitions. All will contribute to a tournament that celebrates handball's European heartland.
France defends. Denmark seeks redemption. Norway dreams of home glory. Sweden provides the backdrop for multiple groups. Spain, Croatia, Germany, and others refuse to accept supporting roles.
The championship final on February 1 in Herning will crown new European champions. The journey to that moment begins January 15. Mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and prepare for the Scandinavian showdown.
Which nation will lift the trophy in Herning? Who will be the tournament's breakout star? Share your predictions and follow along as EHF EURO 2026 unfolds. The countdown to European handball's biggest stage has begun.
