Which type of city should host the 2028 World Cup of Hockey?
World Cup of Hockey 2028 Returns as NHL, NHLPA Begin Host City Race
The NHL and NHLPA have officially launched the host city selection process for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, marking the return of international best-on-best hockey competition for the first time since 2016. Scheduled for February 2028, the tournament will feature eight national teams, 17 games, and two host cities—one of which will stage the semifinals and final. The process is open to North American and international cities, with expressions of interest due by July 18 and July 30 respectively. Playfly Sports is managing the host bid process, and final decisions will be announced in early 2026. The league sees this as a critical opportunity to grow the game globally while delivering major economic impacts. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh have both voiced strong support, emphasizing the tournament's potential for fan engagement and youth inspiration.
Options
- Traditional hockey market (e.g., Toronto, Montreal)
- Emerging market (e.g., Las Vegas, Seattle)
- European city (e.g., Stockholm, Prague)
- Split between North America and Europe