The hockey world is buzzing as more details about the World Cup of Hockey 2028 continue to emerge. Scheduled for February 2028, the eight-team tournament is set to have a different look than its last iteration. Greg Wyshynski of ESPN noted.
“Unlike the last World Cup in 2016, which included the 23-and-under Team North America and Team Europe for unaffiliated international players, this edition will only feature nation-specific teams.” Now, a recent social media post from a league insider has sparked even more conversation and anticipation for the global event.
What New Details Have Surfaced About the World Cup of Hockey 2028?
One of the biggest developments is that the World Cup of Hockey 2028 will likely operate without the involvement of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). Instead, the NHL is expected to work directly with the national federations of participating countries, bypassing the sport’s global governing body.
“At this point, it appears the NHL will move forward with World Cup preparations without IIHF involvement. The league has informed the IIHF it intends on working directly with each Hockey Federation in planning the 2028 event,” wrote TSN’s Darren Dreger on X.
At this point, it appears the NHL will move forward with World Cup preparations without IIHF involvement. The league has informed the IIHF it intends on working directly with each Hockey Federation in planning the 2028 event.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) August 22, 2025
Additionally, David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period shared more logistical details following a conversation with NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly. Pagnotta reported that preliminary games will be split between one European and one North American city. However, the tournament’s biggest moments, the semifinal and final matches, will be held exclusively in North America.
This event promises to build on the excitement of the Four Nations Face-Off. While the full list of participating countries for the 2028 tournament is still uncertain, Gabriel Foley of Pro Hockey Rumors suggests that Czechia and Slovakia are safe bets. Foley also speculated on other potential teams, stating, “The NHL could also bring in any one of Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Latvia — who have each reached varying levels of international success over the last few years.”
A major question mark hangs over Russia’s participation due to the tense political situation. The IIHF has already barred the Russian hockey program from the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. But with the NHL planning to work directly with national teams, it remains unclear whether Russia will receive an invitation to the World Cup of Hockey.
The final selection for the host cities is expected sometime in early 2026. The submission deadline for North American cities was July 18, while international cities had until July 30Â to submit their bids.
