World Cup of Hockey 2028 is officially coming to Alberta, with Edmonton and Calgary confirmed as host cities marking a major win for the province and reinforcing its reputation as a global hockey powerhouse.
The announcement, made Monday, confirms that Edmonton will host the tournament’s biggest moments, including the semifinals and championship game, while Calgary will stage several round-robin and knockout matches.
“Alberta is the right choice to host the World Cup of Hockey. This bid was earned; few places in the world live and breathe hockey the way Alberta does,” said Danielle Smith, Premier. “In 2028, the world will be watching Calgary and Edmonton as Alberta hosts one of the sport’s biggest international events. Fans will have the chance to watch Team Canada take back its place at the top of international hockey on home ice. This province will deliver a tournament worthy of the game.”
The 2028 edition will feature eight national teams and is scheduled for February, representing the return of a “best-on-best” international hockey tournament featuring NHL players.
The successful bid represents an unusual collaboration between Alberta’s two largest cities longtime rivals in what is often dubbed the “Battle of Alberta.”
Earlier this month, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith confirmed the province’s financial backing of the joint effort, describing it as “a joint bid” supported by up to $15 million.
“We are crossing our fingers and hoping,” Smith said while speaking to media, referencing the province’s push to secure hosting rights alongside key partners.
For Edmonton, the selection is especially significant. The city’s Rogers Place one of the NHL’s premier venues will host the final and semifinal games, placing it at the heart of the global spotlight.
The announcement also builds on Edmonton’s track record of hosting major international hockey events, including the NHL’s 2020 playoff “bubble” during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’re proud to play a role in bringing the World Cup of Hockey to Alberta and this is a great example of what strong partnerships can accomplish,” said Robert Hayes, President and CEO, Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation. “Our new arena, Scotia Place was designed for events of this scale, and we’re excited to co-host with Edmonton to deliver an incredible experience for players and fans when the best-on-best tournament arrives in 2028. Alberta is a province that lives and breathes hockey, and this is a chance to showcase that passion on the world stage. Thank you to the Government of Alberta and all our partners who stepped up and delivered a remarkable bid to bring the tournament to Alberta.”
Meanwhile, Calgary is preparing to showcase its new sports infrastructure, including the under-construction Scotia Place arena, expected to open ahead of the tournament and serve as a key venue.
The joint hosting model is also expected to boost tourism, economic activity, and international visibility for both cities.
The World Cup of Hockey has not been held since 2016, making the 2028 tournament a highly anticipated return for fans and players alike.
With Edmonton hosting the final and Calgary anchoring early rounds, Alberta is poised to deliver one of the most high-profile international hockey events in recent history.
“Bringing the World Cup of Hockey 2028 to Alberta is a momentous occasion,” said Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack. “While the friendly “Battle of Alberta” is a beloved tradition, we’re more than happy to call a time out and are thrilled to stand united to bring our combined strength and spirit to the global stage. This tournament will fill our hotels, flood Rogers Place with energy, and drive huge economic growth for our local businesses. We are ready to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our local partners and our friends to the south to deliver an unforgettable global event. Let the countdown begin!”
As preparations begin, officials say the province is ready.
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