March 12, 2025
The National Hockey League (NHL) has unveiled an ambitious new initiative to expand its global footprint by introducing the NHL Global Series for the 2025-2026 season. This unprecedented event will feature regular-season games played in multiple countries, allowing fans from around the world to witness live NHL action in their home cities.
The Global Series will include games in Europe, Asia, and South America, marking the first time the league has ventured into these regions for regular-season contests. The series is designed to further the NHL’s ongoing effort to grow the sport of hockey internationally and introduce new markets to the game. The league has already confirmed matchups in cities such as Stockholm, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, and Mexico City, with the full schedule set to be released later this year.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, emphasizing how it aligns with the league’s goal to increase its global presence. “The NHL has always been committed to reaching as many fans as possible, and the introduction of the NHL Global Series will provide hockey enthusiasts from around the world the opportunity to experience the excitement of live NHL games,” Bettman said. “This is a historic step forward as we continue to grow the sport and introduce it to new audiences.”
The series will consist of a mix of traditional matchups and specially curated games designed to showcase teams from various regions. The games will be broadcast globally, with fans in participating countries gaining exclusive access to the games both in person and through digital platforms. This push into international markets will not only generate significant exposure for the NHL but also expand the league’s already growing fanbase.
In addition to regular-season games, the NHL plans to host youth clinics and fan engagement events in these cities, providing a more immersive experience for local fans and helping to foster grassroots interest in hockey.
The announcement of the Global Series follows successful international games held by the NHL in recent years, including games in China, Sweden, and Finland. With the 2025-2026 season approaching, the league’s expansion of its global efforts marks a significant milestone in the NHL’s strategy to become a truly international league, connecting with fans across continents.
As the league prepares for the first Global Series games, the excitement among hockey fans worldwide is palpable, with anticipation building for the historic event set to redefine the reach of professional hockey.
