Alberta to host 2028 World Cup of Hockey in Calgary, Edmonton

Alberta has been awarded the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, beating out other North American bids to bring one of the sport’s top international events to Calgary and Edmonton.

The successful bid was led by the provincial government alongside Explore Edmonton, Tourism Calgary, OEG Sports & Entertainment and Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation.

The tournament is expected to be the largest international sporting event hosted in Alberta since the 1988 Winter Olympics.

Organizers estimate the event will generate about $375 million in economic activity, support more than 43,000 jobs and account for nearly 172,000 hotel room nights across the province.

Premier Danielle Smith said Alberta’s deep connection to hockey helped secure the bid and will position the province on the global stage.

Tourism and Sport Minister Andrew Boitchenko said hosting the event will boost the economy while showcasing Alberta’s hospitality and passion for the game.

Calgary and Edmonton will serve as co-host cities, with games split between the two centres. Scotia Place in Calgary is set to host seven games, while Rogers Place in Edmonton will host the two semifinal games and the championship.

The province has committed $15 million toward securing the tournament, with Calgary and Edmonton each contributing $2.5 million through their tourism organizations.

The 2028 World Cup of Hockey is scheduled for February and will feature 17 games in total. Prague, Czechia, will serve as the European host city, staging seven games.

It will mark the fourth edition of the tournament, following previous events in 1996, 2004 and 2016.