The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has made notable changes to the women’s international hockey calendar. The annual world championships will now be held in November instead of April starting next year. Additionally, a new European women’s championship tournament is set to debut in 2027.
The announcement of the European tournament came from the collaboration between the IIHF and PWHL. This move aims to enhance the women’s game and provide better opportunities for players across all levels. The decision to shift the world championships to November will allow for a seamless transition into the PWHL season in North America, eliminating the need for a three-week break that was previously required in April.
The upcoming third season of the expanded eight-team PWHL will commence on November 21 and conclude on April 25, followed by the playoffs. The league has also accommodated a four-week break in February for the Milan-Cortina Winter Games. According to PWHL vice president Jayna Hefford, this collaborative effort signifies a significant advancement for women’s hockey, benefiting players, fans, and the future of the sport.
Denmark is set to host the world championships next year, with Quebec City taking the helm the following year. The introduction of the European championship aims to provide more opportunities for international competition and elevate the women’s game in Europe. The tournament is scheduled to kick off in April 2027 after the conclusion of various European women’s league playoffs, with specific details to be announced later.
IIHF president Luc Tardif expressed satisfaction with the revised calendar, emphasizing the importance of the Women’s World Championship in the global growth of the sport. The collaboration with the PWHL has led to a calendar that maintains the integrity of international competition while minimizing disruptions to the league season.
