DAZN, the global sports streaming platform, has secured the worldwide broadcasting rights to 3ICE, the fast‑growing professional ice‑hockey competition that blends speed, spectacle and a distinctive rule set. Starting in July 2026, fans will be able to watch every match of the 3ICE World Cup and the 3ICE Men’s League without a paywall, as the service will be offered completely free‑to‑view.
What sets 3ICE apart is its compact, high‑tempo format: each side fields three skaters and a goalkeeper, eliminating traditional power‑play dynamics and off‑side stoppages. The result is nonstop action that culminates in overtime and sudden‑death penalty shots, guaranteeing a decisive outcome every time.
A historic debut in Belfast
The inaugural 3ICE World Cup took place at the SSE Arena in Belfast on 4‑5 July, where eight nations – the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, Germany and Austria – competed for the first title in the sport’s new era.
The tournament showcased a blend of national pride and novel gameplay, with each nation fielding a roster of elite players adapted to the three‑skater system. The event marked a milestone for the sport, demonstrating its potential to attract a diverse, international audience.
Building on that momentum, the fourth season of the 3ICE Men’s League will be staged at Xtream Arena in Iowa City from 14‑16 July. Eight city‑based franchises will battle for the Patrick Cup, each coached by a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, adding a layer of mentorship and prestige to the competition.
E.J. Johnson, CEO and founder of 3ICE, said the partnership with DAZN reflects the league’s ambition to bring a fresh, engaging product to a global market. “We’re thrilled to partner with DAZN, a platform that shares our vision of making elite hockey accessible to fans everywhere,” Johnson remarked.
Shay Segev, CEO of DAZN Group, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the dynamic nature of 3ICE. “The format’s relentless pace and dramatic finish make it the perfect fit for our free‑to‑view model, and we can’t wait to bring it to viewers across the world,” he said.
Industry observers expect the collaboration to accelerate the commercial growth of 3ICE, which has already attracted attention for its blend of sport and entertainment. With DAZN’s extensive distribution network, the league is poised to reach new demographics and cement its place as a staple of the international hockey calendar.