Calgary and Edmonton emerge as leading contenders to host World Cup of Hockey 2028
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Daniel Lucente
Mar 4, 2026 (2:42 PM)
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Photo credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
The Fourth Period says the Flames and Oilers are front-runners to host World Cup of Hockey 2028, and Alberta is suddenly staring at a massive hockey spotlight.
The NHL and NHLPA are picking two host cities, one in North America and one in Europe.
That matters because the semifinals and final are expected to land in the North American city.
Calgary's pitch is tied to its new arena, Scotia Place, opening for the 2027-28 season.
Edmonton's case is simpler, Rogers Place is already built for big nights and big TV windows.
Commissioner Gary Bettman has also hinted venue news is getting close.
The league has said the tournament runs in February 2028 and is designed as a tight, high-drama sprint.
It's eight countries, best-on-best, with the kind of intensity that makes regular-season games feel like warmups.
This could make a real statement for the province of Alberta
You can already feel how split Alberta fans would get, proud to host the world, but terrified of the travel, ticket prices, and the circus that comes with it.
If Calgary wins it, the city gets an instant "new building" flex on the global stage.
If Edmonton wins it, the Oilers market gets another showcase that fits its loud, modern vibe.
If Alberta somehow lands both cities in the mix, it's a made-for-TV rivalry week on steroids.
The next few months are the key window, because host decisions are expected soon.
Either way, this isn't just civic pride, it's a real chance to put Canada's best rink experience on display before the puck even drops in February 2028.
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| POLL | ||
MARS 4|125 ANSWERS Calgary and Edmonton emerge as leading contenders to host World Cup of Hockey 2028 Should Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers co-host World Cup of Hockey 2028 games? | ||
| Yes | 102 | 81.6 % |
| No | 23 | 18.4 % |
| List of polls | ||