The 2025 IIHF World U18 Championship will once again bring together the world’s best young hockey talent for a high-stakes international showdown. As one of the most important youth hockey tournaments in the world, the Under-18 World Championship showcases the stars of tomorrow and plays a vital role in the development of elite-level players.

Organized annually by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), the U18 Worlds are a key event in the scouting calendar, with NHL prospects looking to prove themselves on the international stage. The 2025 edition is expected to deliver thrilling action, breakout performances, and fierce national rivalries.

When and Where is the 2025 IIHF World U18 Championship?

The 2025 U18 Ice Hockey World Championship is scheduled to take place in April 2025, with the tournament typically running for 10 to 12 days. While the exact host city and venues are yet to be officially confirmed by the IIHF, fans can expect a competitive and well-organized event hosted by a passionate hockey nation.

The tournament features:

• 10 teams in the top division

• Group stage followed by playoffs, including quarterfinals, semifinals, and medal games

• Relegation round to determine which team drops to Division I

Nations Competing in the Top Division

The Top Division of the 2025 IIHF U18 World Championship will include the following national teams (based on 2024 standings and promotions):

• Canada

• United States

• Sweden

• Finland

• Czechia

• Slovakia

• Switzerland

• Germany

• Latvia

• Norway (promoted from Division I A)

These countries will be divided into two groups of five for the preliminary round. The top four teams from each group advance to the knockout stage.

Rising Stars and NHL Draft Prospects to Watch

The U18 World Championship has a rich history of producing future NHL stars. Past tournaments have featured names like Connor Bedard, Jack Hughes, Auston Matthews, and Alexander Ovechkin.

The 2025 edition will be closely watched by NHL scouts and fans as a preview for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. Top prospects from Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland will use this platform to boost their draft stock and showcase their talent on an international stage.

Keep an eye on:

• Dynamic forwards with elite skating and scoring touch

• Smart, mobile defensemen with playmaking vision

• Goaltenders looking to emerge as future NHL starters

Why the IIHF U18 World Championship Matters

While not as widely known as the U20 World Juniors, the IIHF U18 World Championship is often a more accurate showcase of draft-eligible players, as it focuses on a single birth-year class.

This tournament allows young players to:

• Represent their countries on a global stage

• Compete in high-pressure elimination games

• Impress NHL scouts and general managers

• Gain valuable international experience early in their careers

Where to Watch the 2025 U18 World Championship

Fans around the world will be able to watch the tournament through:

• TSN (Canada)

• NHL Network and USA Hockey TV (United States)

• Viaplay, SVT, and other national broadcasters in Europe

• Official IIHF live streaming platforms and YouTube highlights

Real-time scores, stats, and news will be available on the IIHF.com website and social media.

Medal Favorites and Championship Outlook

Traditional powerhouses like Canada and the United States will enter the tournament as favorites, with deep rosters and world-class youth development programs. Sweden, Finland, and Czechia are also strong contenders with skilled players and cohesive team systems.

However, the U18 Championship is known for surprise upsets and breakout teams, making every game count in the race for gold.

Conclusion

The 2025 IIHF World U18 Championship is more than just a youth tournament — it’s a glimpse into the future of international hockey. With rising stars, national pride, and high-intensity matchups, the U18 Worlds deliver a unique blend of talent, heart, and passion that fans won’t want to miss.

Whether you're a die-hard hockey enthusiast or an NHL Draft follower, the 2025 Under-18 Ice Hockey World Championship will offer unforgettable moments and new names to remember for years to come.