The 2023 Four Nations Face-off between Canada, United States, Sweden, and Finland has sent shockwaves through the hockey world, leaving fans and players alike eagerly anticipating its return. The midseason international tournament, which featured a unique round-robin format and a star-studded lineup of NHL talent, exceeded expectations in terms of viewership and excitement.
According to the NHL, the round-robin rounds averaged 4.6 million viewers across North America, a 226% increase compared to the last comparable competition in 2016. The USA-Canada game on Saturday drew over 10 million viewers, the highest non-Stanley Cup Final game since 2014.
The tournament’s success can be attributed to its ability to revive the NHL’s reputation and reignite interest in hockey among fans who may have lost touch with the sport during a period of decline. The Four Nations Face-off also provided an opportunity for players to showcase their skills in a high-stakes environment, with many praising the event as a highlight of their season.
The tournament’s impact extended beyond the ice, with President Donald Trump’s rhetoric contributing to an increased sense of nationalism and competitiveness among Canadian fans. This tension was palpable during the USA-Canada rivalry games, which featured three fights and a dramatic overtime winner from Connor McDavid.
As the NHL looks to the future, questions remain about whether the Four Nations Face-off will become a permanent part of the sporting calendar. With the 2025-26 season set to be interrupted by the Winter Olympics, it’s unclear whether the league will opt for a similar midseason tournament or return to its traditional All-Star Game format.
One thing is certain, however: the Four Nations Face-off has left an indelible mark on the hockey world, and fans are eagerly awaiting its return. With its unique blend of competition, camaraderie, and patriotism, this event has proven to be a winning formula for the NHL.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/21/sport/why-the-four-nations-face-off-was-a-success-spt/index.html