The landscape of international hockey is about to transform dramatically with the announcement of the World Cup of Hockey, scheduled to return in February 2028. This decision, confirmed by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh, signifies a renewed commitment to featuring elite athletes on the global stage. As we eagerly anticipate the reinstatement of best-on-best competition, it’s crucial to explore the implications of this announcement for players, fans, and the future of international hockey.
It has been nearly a decade since NHL players had the opportunity to compete in the Olympic Games. The last Winter Olympics featuring NHL athletes took place in 2014, and the subsequent absence from international events has been palpable, especially among fans and players alike. The last World Cup of Hockey was held in 2016, and in that time, numerous star players, including Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews, have voiced their desires to don their national jerseys and participate in international competitions.
Bettman’s enthusiasm for fostering a regular schedule of international hockey should not be underestimated. He emphasized the excitement surrounding a consistent rhythm of tournaments every two years involving Olympics and World Cups, creating a structure that benefits both players and fans by showcasing the finest hockey talent. This governance presents a refreshing shift towards embracing international competition, where the stakes are higher and the pride of national representation amplifies the intensity of the games.
With the announcement of the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, Bettman revealed that the league will soon be accepting bids from potential host cities, a key factor contributing to the tournament’s success and popularity. Notably, European cities are being encouraged to express their interest, which opens the door for a platform that has previously showcased some of the greatest moments in hockey history.
However, the format of the renewed World Cup is still open for discussion. Unlike the previous iteration that featured unique teams like Team Europe and a U-23 Team North America, each squad will be composed solely of players from their respective countries. This decision underscores a return to traditional national representation, allowing rivalries and fan loyalty to flourish organically.
One of the most pressing concerns surrounding the future of the World Cup is the status of the Russian hockey team. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) imposed a blanket ban on the country from participating in international play across all age levels. This ban has been extended through the 2025-26 season due to ongoing security concerns.
This exclusion has significant ramifications for the World Cup, as Russian players are among the elite in the NHL with stars like Alex Ovechkin and Nikita Kucherov. Walsh highlighted that Russian athletes have expressed a fervent desire to return to international competition, emphasizing the necessity for the hockey community to navigate the broader political landscape to facilitate their participation.
Interestingly, Walsh noted that no other players have indicated they would withdraw from events if Russia were involved. This sentiment signifies a robust willingness among players to compete against the best, regardless of the geopolitical context. The NHL’s alignment with international governing bodies suggests a cautious approach as they assess the situation regarding Russia’s reinstatement in competitive hockey.
A notable dimension of this announcement is the tangible improvement in the relationship between the NHL and the NHLPA. As both parties prepare for forthcoming negotiations concerning a new collective bargaining agreement—set to commence in September 2026—the collaborative spirit showcased in this announcement bodes well for future discussions.
Bettman conveyed his optimism about the negotiations, asserting that the partnership formed under Walsh’s leadership at the NHLPA has been instrumental in advancing various initiatives. This harmonious dynamic allows for joint programming and cohesive decision-making, providing a framework for the sustained development of international hockey events, such as the World Cup.
As anticipation builds for the return of international competition, the forthcoming World Cup of Hockey represents an important milestone for the sport. Alongside a renewed commitment to Olympic participation, these developments promise to breathe new life into the global hockey community. Players will once again have the chance to showcase their talents while representing their countries, and fans can look forward to thrilling games that embody the spirit of competition. With careful navigation through political challenges and a cooperative effort from the league and players association, the vision of a revitalized, exciting international hockey circuit can become a reality.