The ice beneath the world’s top hockey players is set to gleam brightly once again, as the World Cup of Hockey is scheduled to make its anticipated return in February 2028. This announcement, revealed by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman alongside NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh, signals a renewed era of international competition featuring the crème de la crème of hockey talent. After years of absence from Olympic play and a lull in global tournaments, the stage is being set for thrilling contests that could redefine the landscape of the sport.
Bettman emphasizes that NHL players will be participating in the prestigious 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, thus reinstating a rhythm of best-on-best competition that fans and players alike have craved. The excitement surrounding this monthly “4 Nations Face-Off” showcase involving countries like the U.S., Canada, Finland, and Sweden was described by Bettman as a “sampler,” offering a preview of the more significant challenges to come in future tournaments.
For the players, this is a moment long overdue. Olympic participation has eluded NHL players since 2014, with the last World Cup of Hockey being held in 2016. Prominent stars such as Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews have voiced their eagerness to don their national colors in pursuit of glory during their peak performances. The collective anticipation is palpable, with Bettman asserting, “We couldn’t be more excited about making a reality: Olympics, World Cups, Olympics, World Cups on a regular schedule of the best hockey players in the world representing their countries.”
Looking beyond simply announcing the World Cup, Bettman indicated that the NHL will soon welcome bids for hosting rights, paving the way for international cities to showcase their capabilities. While the specifics of the tournament format remain undetermined, plans to include at least eight competing teams are in the pipeline. A notable shift in this tournament is the exclusion of mixed teams, such as the Team Europe concept seen in the past. Instead, individual national squads will be constructed, each lauded for their unique talents and playing styles.
However, the absence of the IIHF in this upcoming World Cup raises questions regarding the eligibility of players currently competing in overseas leagues. It ensures that this tournament will strictly feature NHL players, streamlining the competition and emphasizing the league’s role in defining the hockey landscape.
One of the most pressing concerns surrounding the World Cup is the status of Russian players on the international stage. With Russia facing a ban on international competition following its invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, Bettman confirmed the ongoing suspension of Russian representation. While NHL and IIHF authorities have pushed back Russian involvement until at least the end of the 2025-26 season, Walsh has expressed a desire to have Russian athletes return to international play, recognizing their undeniable talent.
“Russian players have told me they are passionate about returning to the world stage,” Walsh remarked, underlining the complexities at play. As national pride clashes with geopolitical tensions, the NHL finds itself balancing its alignment with global sports governance bodies while considering the voices of its players.
Deputy commissioner Bill Daly alluded to this tenuous situation, reiterating that for Russia to resume participation in future events, a substantial shift in the current climate would be necessary.
The announcement of the World Cup not only rekindles hope among players and fans but also signifies a strengthening relationship between the NHL and NHLPA. This collaboration is particularly relevant as both entities prepare for upcoming negotiations concerning the collective bargaining agreement, which is set to expire in September 2026. Bettman remains optimistic that discussions will proceed smoothly, potentially leading to a new agreement by summer.
“The joint collaboration and partnership with the Players Association is vital for international competition, and we now have a partner that has facilitated our ability to organize and execute these events,” Bettman stated. This outlook bodes well for the sport, ensuring that international competition thrives on the global stage as fans anticipate the return of the sport’s best and brightest.
The impending return of the World Cup of Hockey highlights a promising revival in international hockey. As the timeline approaches and the roster of players emerges, the excitement surrounding these tournaments is certain to heighten, promising thrilling stories and unforgettable moments on the ice. The stage is set, and it seems like the best is yet to come.