For the first time in Europe, the two-day international 3-on-3 hockey tournament, the "8 Nations Cup", will take place, featuring professional hockey players from eight countries. The national teams of Finland, Sweden, Germany, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Estonia, and Latvia are now fully assembled. Well-known NHL players, as well as participants in the World Championships and the Olympic Games, have confirmed their participation in the tournament, including Julius Honka (Finland), Marcel Miller (Germany), Leo Komarov (Finland), and many others.
Also taking to the ice at the "Xiaomi" Arena will be Norman Hauner (Germany), Matej Beran (Czech Republic), Konrad Mälder (Estonia), Mártón Németh (Hungary), Veli-Matti Savinainen (Finland), Roman Pržikril (Czech Republic), David Timofejev (Estonia), Marco Pfleger (Germany), Zsombor Garát (Hungary), Robert Arraks (Estonia), and Bence Horvát (Hungary).
According to the organizers, the Latvian national team is currently still in the process of coordination and confirmation, but it is already clear that the team will consist of very well-known players.
The tournament is organized under the patronage of the Latvian 3-on-3 Hockey Federation. The game consists of three seven-minute periods. Three field players and a goaltender from each team are on the ice at the same time. The game is played without physical contact, but in the event of a rule violation, a penalty shot is awarded, during which a player goes one-on-one against the goalie while the opposing team tries to interfere.
In addition to the 3-on-3 hockey games, "Glove Off" battles on the ice will take place during intermissions, featuring athletes from various countries. The fights will take place in accordance with the tournament rules, with each participant having three one-minute rounds to showcase their skills.
Guests will be treated to an impressive light and sound show, contests for the whole family, and musical entertainment throughout the event.