NHL to Play Regular Season Games in Germany for Three Years | Senators & Blackhawks to Feature
Düsseldorf, Germany, is set to host two NHL regular season games in December, marking a significant expansion of the league’s European footprint. The Chicago Blackhawks and the Ottawa Senators will face off on and , respectively, at a yet-to-be-determined venue in the city. This initiative represents the NHL’s commitment to playing regular season games in Germany for at least the next three years, building on the single game held there in 2011.
The decision to bring NHL action back to Germany is part of a broader strategy to cultivate the sport’s popularity in the country and across Europe. “Our deepened commitment to Germany as an key hockey country marks a critical next chapter for the NHL,” stated Bill Daly, NHL Deputy Commissioner. The league aims to strengthen its presence through both major events and grassroots development programs, fostering stronger connections with German fans, partners, and local communities. The goal, according to Daly, is to “accelerate hockey’s growth across the region, creating meaningful impact from the ground up.”
This move aligns with a growing trend of North American professional sports leagues seeking to expand their international reach. The NHL joins the NBA and the NFL in staging regular season games in Germany, recognizing the country’s large economy and passionate sporting fanbase. However, the NHL faces a unique challenge in Europe: competing with well-established and highly popular local ice hockey leagues that already command significant attention and viewership.
The NHL’s growing international presence is also fueled by the increasing number of German players making their mark in the league. Players like Tim Stützle of the Senators, Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers, and Moritz Seider of the Detroit Red Wings serve as prominent ambassadors for the sport in their home country, inspiring a fresh generation of German hockey enthusiasts. The league is actively supporting this growth through initiatives like the NHL Street Hockey program, which has been implemented in Germany and other European territories.
Beyond on-ice initiatives, the NHL is also investing in its media presence in Europe. The league recently renewed its broadcast agreement with Sky Deutschland for the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), complementing existing coverage provided by ESPN and DAZN through the distribution of NHL.TV. This expanded media coverage ensures that German fans have greater access to NHL games and content.
The NHL’s decision to prioritize Germany comes after a period of increased international activity, including last year’s 4Nations Face-Off and the upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. The league identified Germany as a “priority market” in 2024, signaling a shift towards a more strategic and sustained approach to international games. This new approach aims to build upon previous efforts and establish a stronger, more enduring presence in key European markets.
The games in Düsseldorf are not simply about showcasing the NHL to a new audience; they are part of a long-term investment in the future of hockey in Germany. By bringing regular season games to German soil, the NHL hopes to inspire greater participation in the sport at all levels, from grassroots programs to professional leagues. The league’s commitment extends beyond the ice, encompassing fan engagement initiatives and community outreach programs designed to foster a deeper connection with German hockey fans.
The NHL’s expansion into Germany represents a significant opportunity for the league to tap into a new and growing market. While challenges remain, particularly in competing with established local leagues, the NHL’s strategic approach, coupled with the rising popularity of German players in the league, positions it for success in one of Europe’s most dynamic sports markets. The games in December will be a crucial test of this strategy, providing valuable insights into the potential for long-term growth and engagement in Germany.