How to Watch the 2026 IIHF World Hockey Championship Tournament Live Online for Free The IIHF World Hockey Championship, set to take place from May 15 to 31 in Switzerland, is one of the premier international hockey tournaments.
It brings together the world's top nations, including Team USA, which will be defending its title. However, beneath the surface lies a complex story – one of diverging interests, rivalries, and conflicting priorities.
The NHL's role in shaping American hockey has become increasingly contentious, with the league's schedule conflicts with the World Championship forcing top talent to choose between competing for their country or fighting for their team's Stanley Cup aspirations.