A decision regarding the host of a prominent hockey event is expected to be reached “soon,” according to NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. Speaking at a media event in Calgary, Bettman acknowledged that the selection process is nearing its conclusion. The city, in collaboration with Edmonton, submitted a joint bid to host the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, which Bettman described as commendable, although he did not disclose the winning bid. The final decision, expected in a couple of weeks, will determine the host location for the tournament, which has previously been held in 1996, 2004, and 2016.
Bettman refrained from revealing other potential host cities or the specific criteria under consideration. He praised Calgary for its ongoing development, particularly the new Scotia Place event center set to open in 2027, and also lauded Edmonton’s Rogers Place as an excellent venue. The commissioner emphasized Calgary’s appeal as a tourist destination, highlighting the city’s attractions like the Stampede.
The joint bid from Calgary and Edmonton received financial backing from the provincial government, with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith confirming a $15 million pledge to support the bid. While formal funding agreements are pending, Tourism and Sport Minister Andrew Boitchenko affirmed the government’s commitment to backing the bid due to the significant economic benefits it could bring to the region.
Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas expressed enthusiasm for hosting the tournament, citing the economic opportunities and potential for attracting more major events to the city. The federal government has signaled support for the bid, aiming to maximize economic benefits for Canada and Alberta from the event. However, it clarified that the World Cup of Hockey would not be eligible for funding under Sport Canada’s major international event hosting program as it is a professional sports event.