Edmonton to host the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup
The 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup will take place from August 3 to August 8 in the Alberta capital, bringing together elite under‑18 talent from across the hockey world. The event, traditionally a showcase for the best draft‑eligible players, this year features a strong European contingent from the Western Hockey League.
Ten European prospects will wear the colours of their national teams, including six Czech skaters, one German defenceman, two Slovaks and a Swiss forward. The tournament will feature matchups at the Downtown Community Arena and the iconic Rogers Place, home of the Edmonton Oil Kings and the NHL’s Oilers.
Among the Czech contingent, forward Jonas Vanicek and centreman Lukas Kachlir stand out. Both were selected in the 2026 CHL Import Draft, with Vanicek chosen 56th overall by the Edmonton Oil Kings and Kachlir drafted 51st by the same club. Their size and skill set have generated considerable buzz among scouts.
The draft also produced two CHL top‑10 picks who will make the jump to the WHL next season. Defenceman Dominick Byrtus and forward Dario Blengino, each among the league’s most highly rated prospects, have confirmed their intentions to join WHL teams in 2026‑27.
Swiss forward Alessandro Domenichelli, a 17‑year‑old who posted seven points in 38 games for the Portland Winterhawks during the 2025‑26 campaign, rounds out the European lineup. His offensive output adds depth to a group that also includes a German defenceman and two Slovak forwards.
First games and venue details
Action kicks off on Monday, August 3, with Czechia opening its schedule against the United States, the defending champions, at 1:00 p.m. MT in the Downtown Community Arena. Subsequent games will rotate through the venues, giving fans multiple chances to see the talent on display.
Beyond the on‑ice competition, the tournament serves as a key development milestone for these young players, many of whom are navigating the transition from European leagues to the North American style of play. The presence of WHL franchises such as the Lethbridge Hurricanes, Everett Silvertips and Portland Winterhawks underscores the league’s role in scouting and nurturing future stars.