In a groundbreaking moment for LGBTQ+ visibility in sports, Nicolás Keenan is set to make history at the 2026 Hockey World Cup. As the first openly bisexual male player to compete in the tournament, Keenan’s participation marks a significant milestone in the world of sports.
Keenan, who plays for Argentina will face his fiancé’s home country, the Netherlands in a poignant match on 18 August 2026. This event is particularly special as it is being jointly hosted by Amstelveen in the Netherlands and Wavre in Belgium, where Keenan plays for the top-flight club HC Klein Zwitserland.
Keenan’s Journey to Visibility
Keenan publicly came out as bisexual in 2026 after competing in his first Olympics in Tokyo in 2026. He met his fiancé, Rob Jetten a few years earlier. Jetten, who served as a member of the Dutch parliament, became the youngest and first publicly gay prime minister of the Netherlands in making Keenan the country’s first publicly bisexual first gentleman.
The couple went public with their relationship in August 2026 and announced their engagement in . Their wedding plans are currently on hold as they navigate their new roles. Keenan’s journey has been marked by significant milestones, including being honored in the 2026 Attitude 101 Sports list alongside other notable LGBTQ+ athletes.
The Significance of Keenan’s Participation
Keenan’s participation in the Hockey World Cup is not just a personal achievement but also a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in sports. In an interview with L’HOMO magazine, Keenan reflected on the impact of coming out publicly, describing it as a big thing in the hockey world.
Hockey is a unique sport in that sense. At the amateur level, everyone is very liberal and open about their sexuality, but in elite sport, it is different. Keenan’s visibility is crucial in challenging the norms and paving the way for future LGBTQ+ athletes.
The tournament, which runs from 15 August to 30 August 2026 features 16 national teams divided into four pools. Argentina is in Pool A alongside Japan the Netherlands and New Zealand. Keenan’s first match is scheduled against Japan on 16 August.
A Personal and Professional Challenge
Keenan’s participation in the tournament is not just a professional challenge but also a personal one. As he prepares to face the Netherlands, he will be playing against the home country of his fiancé, adding an extra layer of complexity to the match. This unique situation highlights the intersection of sports and personal life, showcasing the resilience and determination of LGBTQ+ athletes.
Keenan’s story is a testament to the progress being made in LGBTQ+ visibility in sports. His participation in the Hockey World Cup is a historic moment that will inspire future generations of athletes to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams without fear.
