The International Handball Federation (IHF) has officially confirmed the allocation of teams and host cities for the 2027 IHF Men’s World Championship, to be played in Germany. The decision, approved by the IHF Executive Committee via electronic communication on 18 March 2026, follows the principles laid out in Article 1.3.2, Chapter 2, of the Regulations for IHF Competitions, which authorise organisers to assign teams to specific groups and venues.

This procedure, common for major international tournaments, aims to create optimal competitive and logistical conditions while ensuring that arenas are filled with passionate supporters. The allocations for Germany 2027 were determined through a transparent, reason‑based approach.

Placing teams in locations with strong geographical or cultural ties helps maximise attendance and enhance the atmosphere inside arenas, key components in delivering a world-class sporting experience.

In the case of Germany 2027, each city assignment is supported by concrete data on travel, local fan presence, and arena capacity.

The IHF Executive Committee confirmed the following city allocations:

•     Group A: Germany – Munich (home team, previously confirmed by the IHF)
•     Group B: Switzerland – Stuttgart*
•     Group C: Croatia – Munich
•     Group D: France - Stuttgart*
•     Group E: Sweden – Kiel
•     Group F: Portugal – Magdeburg
•     Group G: Denmark – Kiel (previously confirmed by the IHF)
•     Group H: Iceland – Magdeburg

* In case Switzerland or France do not qualify for the World Championship through the European Qualification – Phase 3 in May 2026, the team(s) that won the EHF play-off matches against Switzerland and France, i.e. Italy and Czechia respectively, shall take their place(s) instead.

 

The rationale behind each decision reflects both logistical sense and fan engagement. For example, Denmark, reigning world champions, will play in Kiel, only a short drive from the Danish border. With thousands of Danish fans expected to travel, the atmosphere promises to be electric. Sweden, a traditional rival, will also play in Kiel, reinforcing the strong Scandinavian presence in the northern city and honouring the long-standing connection between Swedish handball and THW Kiel, one of Europe’s most storied clubs.

Meanwhile, Iceland will base their preliminary round in Magdeburg, a city whose local club, SC Magdeburg, features several key Icelandic players. This ensures an existing and enthusiastic local fanbase to rally behind the team. Croatia will play in Munich, supported by one of the largest expatriate Croatian communities in Germany, an estimated 70,000 residents in the area, replicating the successful atmosphere created during the 2019 IHF Men’s World Championship.

France and Switzerland, when qualified, will contest their matches in Stuttgart, conveniently located near both the French and Swiss borders, making it easily accessible for travelling supporters. This configuration efficiently minimises travel while maximising attendance potential.

 

In preparation for the final draw, due to take place on 10 June in München, the IHF also outlined the composition of the four performance pots, determined by team rankings and continental results.

2027 IHF Men's World Championship pots:

Pot 1: Denmark, Germany, Croatia, Iceland, Portugal, Sweden, Egypt, Argentina

Pot 2: France/Czechia, Finland or Montenegro/Slovenia, Norway/Türkiye or Romania, Serbia or Lithuania/Hungary, Spain/Georgia or Israel, Switzerland/Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Kosovo/Faroe Islands, Ukraine or Slovakia/North Macedonia

Pot 3: Netherlands/Greece or Belgium, Austria/Poland or Latvia, Brazil, Bahrain, Tunisia, Cape Verde, Chile, NACHC representative

Pot 4: Qatar, Kuwait, Japan, Algeria, Angola, Uruguay, Wild Card 1, Wild Card 2