Nov 19, 2024; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; NHL commissioner Gary Bettman speaks to the media prior to game between the Edmonton Oilers and the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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NHL Set to Announce Next World Cup of Hockey

Excitement Builds as NHL Prepares to Reveal Dates and Details for the World Cup of Hockey

TSN’s Darren Dreger reports that the NHL and NHLPA are moving forward with plans for a 2028 World Cup of Hockey, excluding the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). Both parties hope to officially announce the tournament during the upcoming 4 Nations Face-off, scheduled for February 12-20 in Boston and Montreal.

The NHL and NHLPA have advised the IIHF they intend on moving forward, at least for now, without IIHF involvement in the 2028 World Cup of Hockey. The NHL and PA are hoping to make an announcement on the 2028 WCH in some form at the upcoming Four Nations Faceoff.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) January 27, 2025

This marks a significant milestone, as NHL players haven’t participated in an international tournament (outside the IIHF World Championships) since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. However, the next few years could see a flurry of international action, including the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy and the 2028 World Cup.

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The 2028 event would be the fourth iteration of the World Cup of Hockey, following tournaments in 1996, 2004, and 2016. Canada emerged victorious in the last edition, held in Toronto, with Sidney Crosby earning MVP honors. Eight teams participated, including Canada, the United States, Finland, Czechia, Russia, Sweden, and two all-star teams. A similar format is expected for the 2028 tournament.

By sidelining the IIHF, the NHL will retain full control over player eligibility and tournament structure, potentially shaping the World Cup of Hockey in a way that caters directly to the league and its players.

Image Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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Anamika Shrivastava

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I’ve always loved writing and storytelling, and hockey gives me a perfect stage for endless stories to tell. Whether it’s breaking down a game, analyzing a big trade, or capturing the emotions on the ice, I bring the NHL to life through words. So what’s the best part you ask? Watching the action unfold and turning it into something fans can connect with. To my readers: Hockey is more than just a game—it’s the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make us jump off our seats. So, keep cheering, keep debating, and never stop loving the madness of the sport!