World Association Extends Time Off Due to Ice Complications - Following the ice-related issues, the World Federation announces the extension of Clause 3.
Title: Poor Ice Conditions at World Ice Hockey Championship: IIHF Extends Intermissions for Better Playing Surface
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The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has taken immediate action to improve the ice condition at the World Championship in Herning, Denmark. Noticing the less than ideal state of the ice surface, the federation has decided to add two extra minutes to each intermission, totaling 17 minutes, to ensure the ice is thoroughly frozen and hardened after resurfacing [1]. As Philipp Grubauer, a NHL goaltender, had requested, the change aims to maintain consistent ice quality in Herning [2].
It's no secret that the ice surface has been suboptimal; during Germany's 5-2 victory against Norway on Tuesday, the game was interrupted twice due to a large hole in the ice [2]. Understandably, the German players expressed their disapproval of the surface condition.
Up next, the German national team faces reigning world vice-champion, Switzerland, today at 4:20 PM in Danish Herning [2] – a match that will be aired on ProSieben and Magentasport. Germany, led by head coach Harold Kreis, has so far won all three games in the tournament [2].
- Ice Quality
- IIHF Measures
- Poor Surface Condition
- Herning Venue
- World Championship Ice Hockey
[1] While the ice surface at the World Championship in Herning is a recent issue, the search results highlight a similar problem in 2025 – a game at Jyske Bank Boxen in Herning was interrupted due to a hole in the ice. Norwegian player Markus Vikingstad stepped through the ice while chasing a puck, and players had previously complained about the poor quality of the surface (source: link).
[2] When addressing the issue, organizers made immediate repairs, which included a twenty-minute delay before the game could continue, but the problem persisted, causing the game to be interrupted again [1]. The IIHF generally works with venues to ensure international standards for ice conditions, including regular maintenance and inspections [3]. To maintain ice quality, preventive measures such as regular inspections, enhanced maintenance, and well-trained ice rink staff with appropriate equipment may be implemented [3].
The IIHF's measures to address the poor ice condition at the World Championship in Herning include adding extra minutes to intermissions, as requested by NHL goaltender Philipp Grubauer, to ensure the ice is thoroughly frozen and hardened. This action comes after the ice surface caused a game interruption due to a large hole in the ice during Germany's match against Norway. Despite the challenges, Germany, led by head coach Harold Kreis, has won all three games in the tournament so far.
