Best-on-Best Returns: Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague to Host 2028 World Cup of Hockey
MediaXTrand report that Best-on-Best Returns: Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague to Host 2028 World Cup of Hockey.NEW YORK/TORONTO — The National Hockey League (NHL) and the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) have officially announced the host cities for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey. In a historic move that bridges North American and European markets, the tournament will be held in February 2028 across three world-class venues: the brand-new Scotia Place in Calgary, Rogers Place in Edmonton, and the O2 Arena in Prague, Czechia.
This marks the first time the premier best-on-best international tournament will be played in Czechia, signaling a new era for the event following the success of the 4 Nations Face-Off and the 2026 Winter Olympics. The eight-nation tournament will feature 17 games, with Alberta, Canada, serving as the primary hub for the knockout rounds. Report by MediaXTrand.
Tournament Format and Venue Breakdown
MediaXTrand report that the 2028 edition is designed to maximize global fan engagement by splitting the group stages between North America and Europe.
- Calgary (Scotia Place): The future home of the Calgary Flames, set to open for the 2027-28 season, will host six round-robin games and one critical elimination game.
- Prague (O2 Arena): One of Europe’s most modern multipurpose arenas will also host six round-robin games and one elimination game, catering to the massive European hockey fan base.
- Edmonton (Rogers Place): Recently ranked as Canada’s top sports city, Edmonton will serve as the tournament’s climax, hosting both semifinal matchups and the championship game.
| Milestone | Date / Detail |
| Tournament Window | February 2028 |
| Participating Nations | 8 Teams (Best-on-Best) |
| Total Games | 17 |
| Championship Venue | Rogers Place, Edmonton |
| Next Event in Cycle | 2030 Winter Olympics (French Alps) |
“The Heartland of Hockey”: Why Alberta and Prague?
The selection of Calgary and Edmonton as co-hosts represents a massive win for the Province of Alberta. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman noted that these cities “shine when staging big events,” citing their deep hockey roots and the legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary.
Meanwhile, Prague has solidified its status as a premier European hockey hub. Having hosted nine NHL regular-season games and three IIHF World Championships, the city expects a significant economic impact and record-breaking attendance for the European leg of the tour.
MediaXTrand report that” There is no international competition in sports that matches the passion, skill, and excitement of hockey’s best-on-best… The players cannot wait to don their home country’s sweaters in Alberta and Prague.” — Marty Walsh, NHLPA Executive Director