Argentina are the 2026 Nations Cup champions. Five days of relentless competition, 20 matches and some of the finest rink hockey on the planet — and it was the Albiceleste who lifted the trophy in Montreux, defeating Italy in a prestigious final to claim their fifth Nations Cup title.
At the top of the all-time standings, Portugal remain the most decorated nation in the tournament’s history with 19 titles. But on this Easter Sunday in Montreux, Argentina wrote another chapter of their own.

Argentina’s road to glory

Argentina’s campaign was built on discipline, composure and quality in the moments that mattered most. They navigated the group stage with authority, then delivered one of the performances of the tournament in the semifinals — a commanding 3-1 victory over Portugal, the European champions and perennial favourites.
On the other side of the bracket, Italy earned their place in the final with one of the most spectacular matches of the competition: a thrilling 6-4 win over Spain that had everything rink hockey fans love about the sport.
The final brought together two nations rich in talent and tradition. When it counted, Argentina rose to the occasion and delivered — lifting the Nations Cup for the fifth time in their history.

Portugal take the bronze

Defeat in the semifinals couldn’t shake Portugal’s resolve. They responded with a characteristically competitive performance in the third-place match, edging Spain 3-2 in a tightly fought battle to secure the bronze medal and their place on the podium.

Placement matches

France claimed fifth place with a commanding 6-3 victory over Angola, while Switzerland took seventh after defeating hosts Montreux HC 6-3.

The Nations Cup also celebrated the standout performers of the tournament.

Top Scorer — Carlo Di Benedetto (France) — 8 goals across the competition, decisive throughout and one of the most dangerous attackers in the field.
Best Goalkeeper — Constantino Acevedo (Argentina) — a commanding presence between the posts and a key pillar of Argentina’s title-winning campaign.
Best Player — Francesco Compagno — outstanding for his technical quality, vision and impact in attack across the entire tournament.
Youngest Player — Cyan Dysli (Switzerland) — one of the most exciting young talents of the competition, a promising name for the future of Swiss rink hockey.
Fair Play Award — Montreux HC — recognised for their sportsmanship and exemplary spirit throughout the competition as hosts and participants.

A Tournament That Delivered

The 70th edition of the Nations Cup confirmed once again why this competition — born in 1921 in this very city — remains one of the most prestigious and historic events in international rink hockey. Emerging talents and established stars shared the same stage, the knockout rounds delivered drama and intensity, and the level of play throughout was a testament to the strength of the sport globally.
Argentina leave as deserved champions. Italy can be proud of a strong run to the final. Portugal once again proved why they remain one of the great powers of world rink hockey. And Montreux, as always, proved the perfect home for it all.