Great Britain’s schedule for the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship has been confirmed.
In just around 270 days, the tournament kick-offs in Switzerland and is being hosted in the vibrant cities of Zurich and Fribourg.
The international ice hockey event will attract fans from all over the world and promises unforgettable moments.
From 15th to 31st May 2026, the world’s top 16 national teams will battle it out over 64 thrilling games for the prestigious World Championship title.
World Championship: Group A in Zurich
Saturday 16th May: Great Britain v Austria 12:20 (11:20 BST)
Sunday 17th May: Great Britain v USA 12:20 (11:20 BST)
Tuesday 19th May: Hungary v Great Britain 20:20 (19:20 BST)
Thursday 21st May: Switzerland v Great Britain 20:20 (19:20 BST)
Friday 22nd May: Finland v Great Britain 20:20 (19:20 BST)
Sunday 24th May: Great Britain v Latvia 16:20 (15:20 BST)
Monday 25th May: Germany v Great Britain 20:20 (19:20 BST)
Christian Hofstetter, General Secretary of the 2026 IIHF WM in Switzerland, said: “We’re thrilled to unveil the official game schedule.
“Switzerland is set to host a compact and emotionally charged World Championship – with top-tier hockey and outstanding games right from day one.”
Short journeys – big emotions
With just under 90 minutes of travel between Zurich and Fribourg, the 2026 tournament will offer fans and teams a compact experience, with short journeys and an electrifying atmosphere between the two host cities.
Tickets on sale from 8th September
Game Day Packages will be available from 12:00 on Monday 8th September 2025 at 2026.iihfworlds.com. Individual game tickets will go on sale in February 2026.
About the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship
The IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship is returning to Switzerland after 17 years. The global ice hockey elite will meet in Zurich and Fribourg from 15th to 31st May 2026 at the biggest annual winter sports event. The 2026 IIHF WM will take place in Zurich and Fribourg’s state-of-the-art ice hockey arenas. In total, there’s 64 and the 16 best national teams will compete for the coveted ice hockey world champion’s title. During the 17 days of the event, around 1,300 volunteers will help to create an unforgettable ice hockey experience for fans and teams.
