IIHF -- INTERNATIONAL ICE HOCKEY FEDERATION
The International Ice Hockey Federation was founded in 1908 in Paris and today governs ice hockey in over 60 countries across six continents. The IIHF organizes the Men's World Championship — held every May since 1930 — as its flagship event, alongside the Winter Olympics, the U20 World Junior Championship (held annually since 1977), the U18 World Championship, and the Women's World Championship. The federation maintains the official IIHF World Ranking system, certifies international referees and officials, and regulates player nationality rules. Unlike club-based leagues, the IIHF represents national teams, meaning players compete for their countries rather than franchises. The IIHF is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, and is one of the oldest sports governing bodies in the world.
Governing body for ice hockey worldwide. 60+ member nations competing across multiple age groups and divisions.
Men's World Championship
Top-tier annual competition. The world's best players representing their nations.
May • AnnualU20 World Junior Championship
NHL draft prospects compete for gold. Held annually in late December/early January.
December-JanuaryU18 World Championship
Top under-18 talent from around the world. Future stars on the big stage.
April • AnnualWomen's World Championship
Elite women's national teams competing for world supremacy.
April • AnnualWomen's U18 Championship
Future women's hockey stars. Top under-18 talent worldwide.
December • AnnualSenior Men's
Senior men's competition for players 35+ and 45+ age groups.
AnnualABOUT THE IIHF
The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) is the governing body of ice hockey worldwide and is based in Zurich, Switzerland. Founded in 1908, it manages international tournaments and sets the rules of the sport. The IIHF currently has 60+ member nations across five continents and organizes world championships at various levels -- senior, junior, and youth -- for both men and women.