The 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship concluded in the Swiss cities of Zurich and Fribourg, delivering a dramatic finale that saw Finland clinch the gold medal after a hard‑fought series against Switzerland.
The tournament’s centerpiece was the presentation of the Most Valuable Player award, a trophy crafted by Škoda Design and handed to Swiss star Roman Josi by IIHF President Maren Gräf, a moment that underscored the brand’s deep integration with the sport.
Sponsorship Milestone
Škoda Auto marked its 33rd consecutive year as the Official Main Sponsor, a partnership that earned a place in the Guinness World Records and was highlighted by the debut of the new Epiq SUV, the entry‑level model of the company’s electric lineup.
The automaker also contributed a fleet of 53 fully electric Elroq and Enyaq vehicles to support logistics, showcasing its commitment to sustainable mobility on an international stage.
MVP and Closing Ceremony
During the closing ceremony, Holger Peters awarded bronze medals to Norway, while the MVP trophy, designed by Škoda Design, was presented on stage, symbolizing a blend of athletic excellence and corporate innovation.
The collaboration between the International Ice Hockey Federation, local organizers, and Škoda was praised for enriching the fan experience and reinforcing the championship’s reputation as a global showcase of tradition and forward‑thinking technology.
As the tournament drew to a close, the legacy of a three‑decade sponsorship and the spotlight on electric mobility left a lasting impression, promising further synergies between sport and industry in the years ahead.