In one month, the time will finally come: the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in Zurich and Fribourg will begin, and anticipation is growing day by day among fans, teams, including many other stakeholders and the Organizing Committee. Final preparations are in full swing as the international ice hockey world looks forward to a tournament filled with emotion and top-level performances in the arenas, as well as unforgettable fan moments in the Official Fan Zones.

Excitement for thrilling games and the unique atmosphere of a global sporting event is increasing every day. In just four weeks, at May 15, ice hockey fans around the world will turn their attention to the opening puck drop at the Swiss Life Arena in Zurich and the BCF Arena in Fribourg.

“The excitement can be felt everywhere. In one month, we will be able to welcome the world to a fantastic ice hockey celebration. Our entire team is working with great passion to provide teams, fans, and partners with a first-class tournament experience. We can hardly wait for it to finally begin,” says Christian Hofstetter, Secretary General of the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship.

With the countdown underway, the hottest phase of preparation begins. From the final infrastructure and event organization to fan activations in the Official Fan Zones, all processes are being precisely aligned with the opening date.

Official Fan Zones promise a unique fan experience

The major ice hockey celebration will not only take place in the arenas: the two Official Fan Zones in Zurich and Fribourg invite fans to experience the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship atmosphere up close.

Whether cheering together at the public viewing, looking for souvenirs in the Official Merchandising Shop, participating in activities offered by Official Sponsors and Partners, or enjoying a wide range of culinary offerings – the Official Fan Zones provide the perfect setting for an all-round successful 2026 IIHF WM experience. At the Official Fan Zone Zurich, it will even be possible to grab some ice hockey gear and give ice hockey a try on the two synthetic ice rinks or the ice hockey mini-golf course.

Numerous additional attractions like a concert by Bastian Baker, author of the Official Song, round off the program and make the Official Fan Zones a highlight for fans from all nations. Watch out for the daily program to be published soon.

Tickets still available

Additional ticket allocations – including for the final round games – will continue to go on sale until the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship. It is therefore recommended to regularly visit the official sales channel and subscribe to the ticket alert so as not to miss any purchasing opportunities.

Sales of the hospitality packages are progressing very successfully. Only a limited number of hospitality packages remain available for the Swiss game days.

Tickets: 2026.iihfworlds.com/tickets