2028 World Cup of Hockey Announcement
The 2028 World Cup of Hockey will take place in three vibrant cities: Edmonton and Calgary in Canada, along with the Czech Republic’s capital, Prague. This announcement was made on Monday during the NHL’s annual general managers meeting held in South Florida, with the NHL and the NHL Players’ Association eager to showcase these cities as hosts for the upcoming tournament.
Enthusiasm from NHL Leadership
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed his enthusiasm for the selected locations, stating, “We at the National Hockey League and our partners at the National Hockey League Players’ Association can’t wait to bring the World Cup of Hockey 2028 to three spectacular venues… These cities ebb with hockey tradition and are well-equipped to accommodate fans and players alike.”
Selection Process and Venue Readiness
The process of choosing host cities included a bidding phase that commenced in June with expressions of interest, leading to formal proposals from 25 different locations in September. Edmonton has previously hosted playoff action in a bubble setting during the pandemic in 2020, while Calgary is gearing up for the opening of a new arena for the Flames by fall 2027, aiming to replace the older Saddledome. Additionally, Prague has welcomed nine regular-season NHL games in its arena, underlining its suitability for hosting the World Cup.
Return of NHL Players to International Hockey
This tournament marks a return to international hockey for NHL players, who are set to participate in either the World Cup or the Olympics every even-numbered year. The last World Cup of Hockey was in 2016, and factors after previous events in 2004 and 1996, including labor disputes, contributed to the event’s irregular scheduling. In February 2028, the NHL plans to host an eight-team tournament consisting of a total of 17 games, building on the excitement of recent international matches, like the high-stakes gold medal game at the Olympics where the U.S. triumphed over Canada in a thrilling overtime finish.
Optimism from NHLPA
Marty Walsh, the executive director of the NHLPA, expressed optimism as well, noting the deep-rooted history of hockey in Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague and the exceptional venues that will enhance the experience for both players and fans during this prestigious international competition.
