Release from 05.05.2026
The situation is clear: while established nations such as Finland, Canada, the USA, and Sweden are regular contenders among the world’s elite, the primary objective for the four ICE nations is to hold their ground at this level. Nevertheless, the significance of this constellation is substantial – never before have the nations of the win2day ICE Hockey League and their players been so prominently represented on the biggest international stage.
Austria with Strong ICE Core
Austria enters the final preparation phase with a 28-man roster, including 23 players from the win2day ICE Hockey League. The largest contingents come from EC Red Bull Salzburg (7 players) and EC-KAC (6), followed by the Moser Medical Graz99ers (4) and the Vienna Capitals (3).
On the ice, preparations have been mixed but valuable. Wins over Latvia (4–3) and Italy (3–2) were balanced by losses to Germany (3–4, 2–5) as well as clear defeats against Czechia. Austria will play its final warm-up game on May 9 in Klagenfurt against Slovenia before heading to the World Championship.
Austria opens its campaign on May 16 against Great Britain. A particularly notable clash follows just one day later, when Austria faces Hungary in the first direct matchup between two ICE nations. Further challenges include games against Switzerland, Germany, Finland, and the USA.
Italy with Intensive Test Schedule
Italy has opted for a high volume of games and broad roster rotation during preparation. Following the initial training camp in Bolzano, the team faced Austria (2–3), France (two losses), and most recently Great Britain. Two additional games against the British side are scheduled for May 10 and 12.
The current roster includes around 30 players and is strongly shaped by win2day ICE Hockey League talent – particularly from HCB Südtirol Alperia and HC Falkensteiner Pustertal, whose players will join the national team following the league final.
Italy faces a major highlight right at the start of Group B, taking on Canada on May 16. Other opponents include Sweden, Czechia, and Slovakia. From an ICE perspective, the direct clash with Slovenia on May 25 is especially noteworthy.
Hungary with Dense Schedule
Hungary is following a particularly intense preparation plan with numerous test games. Losses to Denmark (4–7), Norway (1–2), and Switzerland underline the level of competition, as the team consistently tests itself against higher-ranked opponents. At the same time, there have been positive results, including a win over Poland.
A key highlight of preparation will be the final test game against Canada, serving as the ultimate benchmark ahead of the tournament.
In Group A, Hungary will face Finland, Germany, and the USA among others. The direct ICE matchup against Austria on May 17 could already prove decisive in the battle to avoid relegation.
Slovenia Relies on Continuity
Slovenia traditionally builds on a well-established core and a compact preparation phase. After games against Poland and a tournament block in Tychy (including matchups with Kazakhstan), the team has two final fixtures scheduled: against Hungary (May 7) and Austria (May 9).
Led by head coach Edo Terglav, Slovenia will head to the World Championship with a clear structure. In Group B, they will face Czechia, Sweden, and Canada, among others. Another direct ICE matchup awaits on May 25 against Italy.
Stage Switzerland
The World Championship will take place in Switzerland, with games played in Zurich (Swiss Life Arena) and Fribourg. A total of 16 nations, divided into two groups of eight, will compete for a place in the quarterfinals, while the last-placed teams in each group will be relegated to Division I.