Calgary and Edmonton have united in a bid to host the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, aiming to showcase Alberta’s enthusiasm for the sport and its capability to host significant international events. Valerie Ball, the senior communications manager for Tourism Calgary, confirmed the city’s participation in this ambitious initiative on Wednesday.
Collaborative Efforts
In a statement released later that day, the City of Edmonton expressed its commitment to the joint bid, highlighting collaboration with local partners. The Edmonton Oilers and Explore Edmonton, along with the Calgary Flames and Calgary Tourism, are all actively involved in presenting a compelling case for bringing the prestigious tournament to Alberta.
Although NHL commissioner Gary Bettman refrained from divulging specifics about the bid during a press conference at Scotiabank Saddledome on Tuesday, he acknowledged awareness of the proposal and hinted at interest in the tournament.
Tournament Details
Slated for February 2028, the World Cup of Hockey will feature elite players from around the globe competing under their national flags in a high-stakes tournament. While the NHL has indicated that the event will take place in North America and Europe, specific host cities have yet to be finalised. Bettman remained non-committal when questioned about the nature of the bid from Calgary and Edmonton, neither confirming nor denying its joint nature.
During an unrelated news conference, Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas expressed his enthusiasm for the project. He described the prospect of hosting such a prominent event as “very exciting” but emphasised that his support would depend on the financial viability of the bid. “If you can show me the value for money, I’ll be the first cheerleader,” he stated.
Government Support
The provincial government has pledged financial support, proposing to contribute up to $15 million to facilitate the hosting of the tournament, should either city secure the bid. This financial backing underscores the provincial administration’s recognition of the potential economic benefits that the World Cup could bring to Alberta.
Should the bid be successful, Calgary would have the opportunity to inaugurate its new arena, Scotia Place, with the international event. The state-of-the-art venue, part of a larger entertainment district set to open in autumn 2027, carries a price tag of $800 million and is expected to accommodate around 18,400 spectators. Meanwhile, the Oilers’ Rogers Place, which opened in 2016 at a cost of $613.7 million, has a seating capacity of 18,347.
Why it Matters
Bringing the World Cup of Hockey to Alberta would not only elevate the province’s profile on the international sports stage but also stimulate the local economy through tourism and hospitality. The event promises to unite communities and celebrate the passion for hockey that is deeply ingrained in Canadian culture. A successful bid could set a precedent for future international sports events in Alberta, reinforcing the province’s reputation as a premier destination for high-profile competitions.
