Moncton and Halifax to host 2023 World Junior Hockey Championship

It’s official. Nova Scotia and New Brunswick have been chosen to host the 2023 World Junior Ice Hockey Championship.

From Dec. 26, 2022, to Jan. 5, 20,23, the international tournament will be held at the Scotiabank Centre Halifax and Avenir Centre Moncton.

“We are ready to roll out the welcome mat for the teams, their families and visiting fans, and I’ll be in the arena with thousands of Nova Scotians, cheering at each and every game,” saidNova Scotia Premier Tim Houston in news release

“This world event will showcase our province and our region, and we will provide an unforgettable experience for both New Brunswickers and those visiting,” saidIn a news release, Blaine Higgs, Premier of New Brunswick, said so.

CTV News first reported on the joint bid of the two largest cities of the Maritime region in March.

TSN’s Darren Dreger tweeted Thursday morning, confirming Halifax and Moncton as host cities. This announcement was expected to be made later in the day.

It is not yet clear how the games will be divided between Avenir and Scotiabank centres.  

“Halifax is a hockey town and so is Moncton,” said Halifax Mayor Mike Savage. “Hosting the World Juniors will help our region rebound from the pandemic, celebrate our passion for the game and inspire the next generation of hockey players in our region.”

“Coming out of a challenging two years, our region, hockey fans and players are ready to rally together to host the world and once again celebrate Atlantic Canada on the international stage,” saidDawn Arnold, Moncton Mayor

The 2023 tournament was originally planned to be held in Russia. However the International Ice Hockey Federation, (IIHF), revoked Russia’s hosting rights following the invasion by Ukraine.

In 2003, the World Junior Hockey Championships were held in Sydney and Halifax.