Full Breakdown
Calgary's Scotia Place: A Potential Host for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey
3/5/2026, 12:28:53 AM
Overview of Scotia Place Construction
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman recently toured the construction site of Calgary's new $1.2 billion event center, Scotia Place, which is set to open in the fall of 2027. Bettman expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting that the arena is significantly further along than it appears from the outside. He highlighted the extensive planning that has gone into the facility, which will be twice the size of the current Scotiabank Saddledome, featuring more amenities and improved layout based on best practices from other NHL arenas.
Implications for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey
Calgary and Edmonton have submitted a joint bid to host the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, with Bettman acknowledging the bid's strengths. While he refrained from declaring Calgary the frontrunner, he emphasized that the city has a strong reputation for hospitality and tourism, citing the annual Calgary Stampede as an example of its vibrant culture. Bettman stated, “Millions of tourists come through here a year. This is a place that knows hospitality.”
Official Statements & Responses
Bettman confirmed that the NHL is evaluating bids for the World Cup, with an announcement expected in the coming weeks. He remarked, “Bids are being evaluated, nothing has been finalized, but it was a good bid.” Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has also pledged $15 million to support the hosting efforts if an Alberta city is selected.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite his positive remarks about the new arena, Bettman has previously criticized the aging Scotiabank Saddledome, indicating that it was time for a new facility. He acknowledged the nostalgia associated with the Saddledome but maintained that the new arena is necessary for the city's growth and ability to host major events.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Bettman has praised Calgary's bid, he has not disclosed which other cities are competing for the World Cup hosting rights. This lack of information leaves uncertainty about the competition Calgary faces, as well as the specific criteria being used to evaluate the bids.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It looks like it's going to be a spectacular, first-class, state-of-the-art arena.” — Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
- “This building has been well thought-out and as a result, it’s going to work very well for its intended purposes.” — Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
- “I get Calgary and I get what a terrific city it is and a great place to visit.” — Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
As the construction of Scotia Place progresses, Calgary's aspirations to host the 2028 World Cup of Hockey remain a focal point for the city, with significant implications for its economic and cultural landscape.
