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Calgary, Edmonton, Prague to Co-Host 2028 World Cup of Hockey

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, March 16th 2026 at 13:53 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: CANADA, CZECH REPUBLIC

Calgary, Alberta - March 16th, 2026 - The National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey Players' Association (NHLPA) delivered exciting news today, officially announcing that Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague will jointly host the 2028 World Cup of Hockey. The decision, revealed earlier this morning, signals a strategic move to broaden the tournament's global reach and capitalize on the growing international interest in the sport. This marks a return to the roots for both North American and European fans, with Calgary and Edmonton previously sharing hosting duties in 2004, and Prague welcoming the event back in 1998.

The 2028 World Cup of Hockey will feature a select group of eight elite national teams: Canada, Czechia, Finland, Latvia, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States. This focused format differs from the Olympic hockey tournament, allowing for a higher concentration of star power and more intense competition. While the Olympics feature a wider array of nations, the World Cup is intended to showcase the absolute best talent, creating a spectacle for hockey enthusiasts worldwide. The absence of qualification rounds streamlines the event, guaranteeing viewers top-tier matchups from the very beginning.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman hailed the announcement as a significant step forward for the league and its players. "This is exciting news for our fans and players," Bettman stated. "Hosting the World Cup in North America and Europe will allow us to reach a broader audience and showcase the best players in the world." The commissioner's statement underscores the NHL's ambition to grow its international footprint, particularly in emerging markets. The choice of Prague as a host city reflects this commitment, aiming to capitalize on the passionate hockey fanbase in the Czech Republic.

The selection of Calgary and Edmonton, both cities steeped in hockey tradition, provides a strong foundation for the tournament's North American leg. The 2004 World Cup, co-hosted by these two Albertan cities, was widely considered a success, drawing significant crowds and generating substantial economic impact. Improvements to both cities' arenas and infrastructure since then promise an even more impressive experience for players and fans in 2028. Furthermore, the geographic proximity of Calgary and Edmonton will simplify logistics for teams and travelling supporters.

Prague, a city with a rich hockey heritage, is expected to bring a unique and vibrant atmosphere to the tournament. Hockey is deeply ingrained in Czech culture, and the city boasts a dedicated fan base that consistently supports both domestic and international competitions. The 1998 World Cup, hosted in Prague, laid the groundwork for the growing popularity of the sport in the country, and officials anticipate that the 2028 edition will further solidify this passion.

The tournament is tentatively scheduled for late summer 2028, a strategic choice to avoid conflicts with the NHL regular season and the Olympics. This timing allows the NHL's biggest stars to participate without facing the logistical challenges of balancing club and international commitments. The league is hoping to build on the momentum of its continued international growth, having successfully held games in Europe over the past decade.

Looking Ahead: The Future of International Hockey

This announcement raises interesting questions about the future of international hockey competition. While the Olympics remain a pinnacle event for many players, the World Cup of Hockey provides a distinct alternative, focusing on a curated selection of elite teams. The scheduling of these events, and potential overlaps, will continue to be a topic of discussion between the NHL, NHLPA, and the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). Some analysts suggest that the NHL could explore options for further expanding the World Cup format in future years, potentially including additional national teams based on performance and international rankings.

The economic impact of the 2028 World Cup is expected to be substantial for all three host cities. Tourism revenue, hospitality spending, and media coverage are all anticipated to increase significantly. Local organizers are already beginning to plan for the influx of visitors, focusing on providing a world-class experience for fans. The event also presents an opportunity to showcase each city's unique culture and attractions to a global audience.

Ultimately, the 2028 World Cup of Hockey promises to be a thrilling showcase of skill, athleticism, and national pride. With a strong host city lineup and a focused roster of elite teams, the tournament is poised to become a major event on the international hockey calendar.