The World Cup of Hockey is an irregularly held series of games organized by the NHL and NHL Players Association. The upcoming tournament in 2028 will see games played in Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague, marking a significant return of this prestigious event since the last edition in 2016.
Scheduled for February 2028, the World Cup of Hockey will feature 17 games played over 13 days. It will consist of two groups of four teams competing in a round-robin format, with the top three teams from each pool advancing to the single-elimination stage.
Prague’s O2 Arena has a rich history with the NHL, having hosted the second-most regular-season games outside North America. This venue is expected to provide an exciting atmosphere for fans and players alike.
Marty Walsh, a key figure in the NHL, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “It’s great for our players. Our players want this. It’s wonderful for our fans. It’s great for the growth of hockey.” He also noted the anticipation surrounding the tournament, saying, “We’re excited this is a reality and now we can stop answering questions about a schedule moving forward about best-on-best competition.”
Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner, emphasized the quality of the venues, stating, “We’re going to be in extraordinarily strong, state-of-the-art buildings for all of it.” This reflects the commitment to providing an exceptional experience for both players and fans.
In addition to the games, the tournament will feature extensive ancillary programming, including unique fan events and media days, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the participants for this first World Cup since 2016, including whether Russia will be among the teams competing. This uncertainty adds an element of intrigue as the tournament approaches.
The semifinals and final will be held at Rogers Place in Edmonton, ensuring that the climax of the tournament will take place in a premier location.
As the event draws closer, excitement builds among hockey fans worldwide, particularly in Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague, where the fan experience is anticipated to be remarkable.
