Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
According to World Aquatics, Spain's women's water polo team retains its top ranking as the 2026 season begins. Spain's men's team also holds the leading position in their category. At the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, Spain advanced to the semi-finals and secured bronze by defeating the USA in the medal match. Nona Pérez, the European Women’s Water Polo Player of the Year, expressed pride in maintaining the number one spot, emphasizing the team's consistent dedication and effort in a highly competitive field.
The Netherlands remains Spain's closest rival, holding second place after defending their European title at the Funchal championships earlier this year. Greece has moved up to third after winning their first World Aquatics Championship gold since 2011. Hungary is in fourth place, following silver medals at both the World Aquatics and European Championships. The USA has slipped to fifth, followed by Italy, Australia, and France in sixth through eighth. Great Britain and China round out the top ten.
The 2026 Women’s Water Polo World Cup season is underway, starting with the Division 2 tournament in Malta from April 21 to 26. The Division 1 tournament will be held in Rotterdam from May 1 to 6, providing teams with an opportunity to climb the world rankings. The top teams will compete for spots at the World Aquatics Water Polo World Cup Finals in Sydney from July 22 to 26.