IIHF World Junior Championship (U20)

The world championship of talent

Players who are no older than 19 in the tournament year may take part in the World Juniors. Many of them have already been drafted or soon will be, and some already play in the NHL. For scouts, the tournament is one of the most important opportunities to see the world's best talents in direct comparison. The U20 World Championship has officially been held since 1977; there were unofficial tournaments before that.

Over the holidays

The tournament traditionally starts on 26 December and ends in early January. In Canada it is part of the holiday season like Christmas dinner and family visits. Games in Canada regularly sell out, and TV ratings are enormous. Attention is also high in the USA, Finland, Sweden and the Czech Republic.

Format

In the top division, ten teams play in two groups. The top four in each group reach the quarter-finals. The bottom team in each group faces a relegation round or has to fight to stay up according to the regulations. Below that there are further divisions. Games are played under IIHF rules, as at the Men's World Championship.

Favourites

Canada holds the record and has won the tournament particularly often. The USA, Finland, Sweden and the former Soviet Union or Russia have also won gold several times. Because the teams are put together anew every year, there are always surprises.

German-speaking region

Germany has played in the top division for several years and has reached the quarter-finals several times. Players such as Leon Draisaitl, Moritz Seider and Tim Stützle attracted attention at the World Juniors before making careers in the NHL. Switzerland is also regularly represented in the top division and won bronze in 1998. Austria alternates between the top group and Division I.

Springboard

For many players, the World Juniors are their first major international appearance. Good performances can improve their draft position or lead to a contract in North America. For fans, it's a preview of the stars of the coming years.

Venues

The World Juniors are often held in Canada or the USA, because interest is greatest there. Sweden, Finland, the Czech Republic and Switzerland also regularly host. For fans, it is the first opportunity to see future stars.