The World Cup of Hockey returns after a break, to be held in North America and Europe
The World Cup of Hockey will return in 2028, taking place in Canada and the Czech Republic after a decade-long hiatus.
The NHL announced plans for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, marking the tournament's return after a ten-year break. The event will be hosted in Canada and the Czech Republic, featuring eight participating teams. This tournament has a history of being held three times previously: in 1996, 2004, and 2016, and serves as a significant competition separate from the Olympics and World Championships, with the NHL heavily involved in its organization.
Unlike other international hockey competitions, the World Cup of Hockey is orchestrated by the NHL, and most of the participants are from the NHL, although players from outside the league can also join. Matches will be held across multiple cities, including Calgary and Prague, with the best teams progressing to the semifinals. The final rounds of the tournament will take place in Edmonton, Alberta, emphasizing both North American and European representation in high-stakes hockey.
The 2028 World Cup of Hockey not only resumes a beloved event among hockey fans but also highlights the ongoing popularity of the sport on a global scale. The inclusion of major NHL cities as hosts underscores the league's influence and the potential economic benefits for the local economies as well as the international attention that the tournament will draw.