The 2023 IIHF World Juniors have reportedly found a new home. Originally scheduled to be held in Omsk and Novosibirsk in Russia, next year’s edition of the annual event will instead be held in Moncton & Halifax.
According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, a formal announcement confirming the locations is expected from Hockey Canada Thursday afternoon.
Slated to take place between December 26th and January 5th, the 2023 event was moved as a result of sanctions against Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
Speaking on the possibility of hosting the event, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs remarked “As a fan, I know how important hockey is to Canadians, which is why I am proud to offer my government’s support for this bid…Sporting events of this magnitude provide a lift to the economy, tourism and sports development. They are also an excellent opportunity to invite people to our province and for hockey fans to experience high-level, exciting competition.”
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston added “We have done it before and we are ready to do it again. In 2003, we showed there is no better host for this significant event when we hosted the World Junior Championship, and Nova Scotians are ready to do it again.”
It will mark the first time since 2003 that the tournament will return to a maritime province. It also ends weeks of speculation that Regina/Saskatoon or Ottawa could snag hosting duties for the annual event.
Hockey Canada will reportedly have an official statement regarding the tournament later today.