IIHF World Juniors 2026: Updated Bracket, TV Info and Live Streaming Details

As the calendar rolls to 2026, the latest edition of the World Juniors moves on to the knockout rounds.

Sweden emerged first in group play, having won all four of its regulation games. In search of their first crown since 2012, the Swedes have relied on defense, allowing only eight goals in the preliminary round of what has been a high-scoring event thus far.

In terms of scoring, Canada has been the most explosive squad to date. After failing to reach the semifinals the previous two years, the Canadians scored 25 goals in the group stage. The attack has been balanced, with three players accounting for eight points each: Zayne Parekh (four goals, four assists), Gavin McKenna (3 G, 5 A), and Michael Hage (2 G, 6 A).

Don’t underestimate the home team, though. While the two-time defending champion USA team lost to Sweden to end group play, the Americans have the talent and experience to win the title again, with Will Zellers (five goals thus far) leading the way.

Here’s how to see all of the knockout round action from the Twin Cities.

World Juniors bracket 2026

Quarterfinals

• Sweden vs. Latvia
• Czechia vs. Switzerland
• USA vs. Finland
• Canada vs. Slovakia

Teams will be re-seeded for semifinals based on their standing after the preliminary round.

World Juniors knockout round schedule, scores 2026

Friday, Jan. 2

Sunday, Jan. 4

Teams will be reseeded for semifinals. If the USA is in the semis, it will play the early game. 

Monday, Jan. 5

Where to watch World Juniors 2026: TV channel, live stream

• TV channel: NHL Network
• Live stream: Fubo

The 2026 World Junior Championships will be broadcast live on NHL Network.

E.J. Hradek will be the lead play-by-play announcer for all Team USA games, alongside analyst Tony Granato and reporter Jon Morosi.

Fans may watch every game live on Fubo, which provides a free trial for new customers so they can test the service before purchasing. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, and over 100 other popular live TV and sports channels without cable. (Participating plans only. (Taxes and fees may apply.)

World Juniors location 2026

• Location: Saint Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Arenas: Grand Casino Arena (Saint Paul), 3M Arena (Minneapolis)

The 2026 World Juniors will be held in the Twin Cities, with the Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul, home of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild, hosting Group A games and the majority of the knockout round. Group B games and two quarterfinals will take place at the University of Minnesota’s 3M Arena in Minneapolis.

World Juniors winners, medalists

Here are the medal-winning teams from the last 10 World Juniors: