Euro Hockey Challenge. Ten tournament facts

Who plays in the Euro Hockey Challenge?

All European teams from the first division and some second division sides. Slovakia, Norway, France, Italy, Belarus, Latvia and Denmark generally compete every year.

Only European teams?

No, sometimes Asian teams such as Japan, Kazakhstan and South Korea particpate. Canadian and American B teams have also competed in the past.

When did the tournament begin?

In 2002.

Is there a set concrete system?

Competitors decide between themselves where matches will take place.

When do games take place?

During international breaks in September, November, December, February and April. Because of the Euro Hockey Tour, Russia rarely compete.

Is there a tourmanent winner?

No, there isn't even a competition table.

Have Russia ever played in the Euro Hockey Challenge before?

Since 2011 Russia have been competing in the tournament. In that year, Russia beat France but lost to Denmark.

Why is the Russian Olympic team playing against France?

It's a chance to play against one of the World Championship hosts. Probably, some players from this Russian B team will make the Russian World Championship roster.

Which Russian players from last year's Euro Hockey Challenge competed at the 2016 World Championship?

Igor Shestyorkin, Vyacheslav Voynov, Anton Belov, Stepan Sannikov, Evgeny Dadonov and Vadim Shipachyov.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation