The 2025 IIHF World Championship has begun

The 2025 IIHF World Championship began on May 9 and will last until May 25. It is the 88th edition of the tournament organized by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). This year, it will be played in two cities – Stockholm, Sweden, and Herning, Denmark.

The tournament will feature 16 teams divided into two groups:

Group A (Stockholm):
Canada, Sweden, Finland, Slovakia, Latvia, Austria, France, Slovenia

Group B (Herning):
Czech Republic, USA, Switzerland, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Kazakhstan, Hungary

The newcomers to the elite this year are Hungary and Slovenia, who have won promotion from the lower division. On the other hand, Russia and Belarus are missing again due to their ongoing ban from the start.

The defending champion is the Czech Republic, which surprised with a strong performance last year and will try to repeat its success this year. The biggest stars of the tournament include Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon (Canada), David Pastrňák (Czech Republic), Nico Hischier (Switzerland) and Matty Beniers (USA).

Interesting fact: This year brings a technological innovation – in some matches, the tracking of pucks and players using sensors in jerseys and pucks is being tested. The system records speed, movement and played times, which brings a new level of hockey analytics to spectators and experts.

The Slovak team has the youngest squad in recent years, with several players playing overseas or in top European leagues. Interestingly, some of the players represented Slovakia at the World Junior Championships last year. Their inclusion is a clear signal of rejuvenation and confidence in the future of Slovak hockey.

The tournament promises exciting matches, surprises and unforgettable moments. Fans have a lot to look forward to.