NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly revealed that outdoor hockey games in Europe are likely to become a reality soon. He expressed optimism during the European Player Media Tour in Munich, indicating that the timeframe is not yet finalized but expected to be "relatively near future." This initiative aligns with the NHL's efforts to expand its presence in Europe through regular season games and partnerships, such as the recent collaboration with FC Bayern Munich. Daly mentioned that Germany is a strong candidate for hosting these outdoor events, particularly in venues like the Allianz Arena. The NHL has successfully engaged European fans since launching the NHL Global Series in 2017.

By the Numbers
  • The NHL has been hosting regular season games in Europe since 2017.
  • Four games are scheduled for the 2026 NHL Global Series in Helsinki and Dusseldorf.
State of Play
  • The NHL is actively working to expand its market in Europe, leveraging outdoor games as part of its marketing strategy.
  • Allianz Arena in Munich, with a capacity of 75,000, is a potential venue for outdoor games.
What's Next

The NHL is expected to announce specific dates and locations for outdoor games in Europe in the near future, potentially targeting Germany as a major venue. The coming seasons, including 2027-28, will showcase additional regular season games in Germany, enhancing the league's European footprint.

Bottom Line

The NHL's expansion into outdoor games in Europe marks a strategic move to grow its international fanbase and capitalize on the popularity of hockey across the continent. This initiative highlights the league's commitment to engaging European audiences and enhancing its global profile.