2028 World Cup of Hockey returns with elite teams in Prague and Canada
The 2028 World Cup of Hockey will bring top international competition back to the ice, with games set for Prague, Calgary, and Edmonton. Organised by the NHL and NHLPA, the tournament will follow NHL rules and feature eight elite teams. No rosters or player predictions have been released yet, as the event remains two years away.
The tournament will run differently from the Olympics, with only eight teams competing instead of twelve. This change aims to avoid mismatched games, like those seen in earlier Olympic rounds. The format includes a round-robin stage, splitting the teams between Prague and Calgary. The top team in each pool will earn a direct spot in the semifinals, held in Edmonton.
After the 2028 World Cup, the next best-on-best event will be the 2030 Olympics. The NHL and NHLPA plan to alternate between these tournaments every two years, keeping a steady cycle of high-level play. The rivalry between Canada and the US remains a highlight, with both nations expected to field strong squads. Host cities were chosen for their hockey culture and infrastructure. Prague will share duties with Calgary and Edmonton, where the final rounds will take place. The NHL and NHLPA will handle marketing and logistics, ensuring the event aligns with league standards.
The 2028 World Cup of Hockey will mark the return of elite international competition under NHL management. With a tighter format and fewer teams, organisers aim for more competitive games. Fans can expect a regular schedule of top-tier tournaments moving forward, starting with this event in Prague, Calgary, and Edmonton.
