OTTAWA, Ontario – The ceremonial passing of the puck from organizers of the 2025 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship in Ottawa to the hosts of the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship in Minnesota took place today at a press conference on the final day of this year’s tournament.

“We’re excited to be the host of the 50th anniversary of the World Juniors next year,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey, “and working with our partners in the great State of Hockey, we know that everyone involved – including fans from across the world – will have an unforgettable experience.”

The symbolic passing of the puck represents more than just a handoff between host nations – it embodies the spirit of international hockey.

The iconic IIHF World Junior Championship showcases the best men’s ice hockey players in the world under 20 years of age competing for the gold medal. The tournament, which features the future stars of the National Hockey League (NHL), will be held from Dec. 26, 2025 – Jan. 5, 2026, at Saint Paul’s Xcel Energy Center, home of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild and PWHL’s Minnesota Frost, and 3M Arena at Mariucci on the University of Minnesota campus in Minneapolis. 

As part of the press conference today, the Great Minnesota Puck Pass video debuted. More than 150 fans from across the State of Hockey submitted footage that includes well-known Minnesotans Governor Tim Walz, Senator Nick Frentz, Senator Karin Housley, Representative Matt Norris, Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, University of Minnesota President Dr. Rebecca Cunningham, along with hockey legend Lou Nanne, members of the Wild, Frost, Gophers and local hockey communities to showcase the state’s passion for the game and excitement to host one of international hockey’s most prestigious events.

“We’re honored to welcome the 2026 World Junior Championship to Minnesota’s capital city,” said Melvin Carter, mayor of Saint Paul. “This tournament will not only bring world-class hockey to our city but will also showcase Saint Paul's vibrant community to an international audience. We're ready to welcome the world's next generation of stars and their fans to the State of Hockey.”

Minnesota Sports and Events is proud to partner with USA Hockey to host the World Juniors in Minnesota along with host partners Minnesota Wild, Xcel Energy Center, Visit Saint Paul, and the University of Minnesota.

All-session ticket packages for the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship in Minnesota are on sale now at 2026.worldjunior.hockey.

For more information, visit WorldJuniorsMN26.com.