Spain to face Croatia, Chile, and Turkey in 2027 World Championship group stage

The Spanish men's national handball team, known as 'Los Hispanos,' will face formidable opponents Croatia, Chile, and Turkey in the first phase of the 2027 World Championship. The draw, held in Munich, placed Spain in Group C, with matches scheduled to be played at the SAP Garden in Munich from January 13-31, 2027.

Spain, who secured a bronze medal at the recent Paris Olympics, will begin their World Championship campaign on January 14 against Turkey. This marks Turkey's debut in the tournament, having received an invitation from the International Handball Federation (IHF).

Two days later, on January 16, Spain will play against Chile, a team they have faced in the first round of the last two World Championships. Spain defeated Chile 34-26 in the 2023 World Championship and 31-22 in the 2025 edition. The Spanish team, coached by Jordi Ribera, will conclude the first phase on January 18 against Croatia, the current world vice-champion and bronze medalist at the last European Championship.

Should Spain secure one of the top three positions in their group, they will advance to the second phase in Cologne. There, they will compete against the top three teams from Group D, which includes Argentina, France, Brazil, and Kuwait. The top two teams from each group in the second phase will qualify for the quarterfinals, also to be held in Cologne.