Team Update – Ice Hockey Australia 1 April 2026
Published Wed 01 Apr 2026
Team Update – Ice Hockey Australia 1 April 2026
Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) last night together with other nations in the WMIIA division, met to discuss the relocation plans for the cancelled World Championship tournament in Al Ain, UAE set for 19 April 2026.
IHA is deeply thankful to the other nations who considered hosting at very short notice, and particularly to Georgia who was selected by the IIHF as the new host.
After consulting with important stakeholders and completing assessments of the ability to send the team with three weeks notice, IHA made the difficult decision that the challenges were too great. The support, safety and management of risk remains an important focus for IHA.
This decision has not been taken lightly. After careful consideration of a range of factors, including player welfare, logistical challenges, and broader operational constraints, we believe this is the most responsible course of action at this time.
We thank our athletes, staff, supporters, and the wider ice hockey community for their ongoing support. Representing Australia on the international stage is a privilege, and we share in the frustration of not being able to compete.
Ice Hockey Australia remains committed to supporting our Men's Team and indeed all our teams and continuing to grow the sport domestically and internationally. We particularly thank our Men's Team and staff for their hard work, input and dedication to the sport. Focus turns to driving
strategy and opportunity for the team in 2027 and beyond; a goal we are all committed to.
Background
Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) is the nation’s governing body for the sport of ice hockey. Established in 1908, IHA is responsible for the promotion and administration of the world’s fastest team sport at every level of participation in Australia — from youngsters stepping onto the ice to compete for
the first time, through to senior men and women representing the country in international competition. IHA is an AIS-recognised National Sports Organisation (NSO) and has been a member of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) since 1938. Our vision is to work with our
community to support, grow and advance the sport of Ice Hockey in Australia and globally; achieving excellence, demonstrating integrity and building a thriving and inclusive community
