World Cup of Hockey in Edmonton, Alberta

In a remarkable display of unity, Calgary and Edmonton have set aside their storied rivalry to jointly bid for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey.

This collaboration underscores Alberta's deep-rooted passion for the sport and its commitment to hosting world-class events.

Valerie Ball, senior communications manager for Tourism Calgary, confirmed the bid, highlighting the province's enthusiasm and proven track record in organizing major international tournaments.

The bid proposes utilizing Calgary's upcoming Scotia Place, an $800-million arena slated for completion in fall 2027, and Edmonton's Rogers Place, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2016.

Scotia Place, part of a larger $1.2 billion events center development, is expected to seat approximately 18,400 fans, while Rogers Place boasts a capacity of 18,347.

These venues are poised to provide an exceptional experience for players and spectators alike.

The joint bid reflects a strategic move to leverage the strengths of both cities.

Calgary's new arena, situated in the Victoria Park neighborhood, is designed to be a centerpiece of the city's entertainment district, offering modern amenities and a vibrant atmosphere.

Edmonton's Rogers Place, located in the heart of downtown, has already proven its capability by hosting numerous high-profile events since its inauguration.

The NHL and NHLPA have initiated the host city selection process for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, with plans to announce the chosen cities in the near future.

Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged the quality of the Alberta bid, stating that it is one that people could be very proud of.

While the final decision is pending, the joint effort by Calgary and Edmonton positions them as strong contenders.

Historically, the rivalry between Calgary and Edmonton, known as the Battle of Alberta, has been intense, spanning various sports and cultural events.

However, this joint bid signifies a shift towards collaboration, aiming to showcase Alberta's collective ability to host international events.

Both cities have a history of hosting significant events independently.

Calgary hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics, while Edmonton was the venue for the 1978 Commonwealth Games.

By combining resources and expertise, they aim to present a compelling case to the NHL.

The Alberta government's commitment to supporting the bid financially further strengthens their proposal.

With the potential to host the world's top hockey talent, the 2028 World Cup of Hockey in Alberta could be a landmark event, celebrating the sport's rich heritage in the province and uniting fans from around the globe.