Overview

• The NHL and NHLPA have opened the official Host City Selection Process, inviting cities with NHL-standard arenas to submit Expressions of Interest.
• Interested municipalities must meet the July 18 deadline for North American bids or the July 30 cutoff for international submissions.
• The World Cup of Hockey is scheduled for February 2028 and will feature eight national teams playing 17 games over 12 days, including group, quarterfinal, semifinal and final rounds.
• A Request for Proposal phase will begin in August 2025, leading to the announcement of the two host cities in early 2026.
• The tournament will run independently of the IIHF, Russia’s involvement remains undecided under existing sanctions and the NHL may collaborate with other leagues to complete certain national rosters.