Lawmakers hear request for $5 million to host 2026 World Junior Hockey Championship in Minnesota

Sen. Nick Frentz asked the Jobs and Economic Development Committee on Wednesday to approve a $5 million grant to help Minnesota host the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, saying the event would draw hundreds of thousands of fans to the state.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, University of Minnesota coach Bob Motzko and Wendy Blackshaw, chief executive of Minnesota Sports and Events, testified in support of the request. They described the tournament as a globally watched event that will bring international visitors to multiple Minnesota venues and produce what organizers estimate could be roughly $75 million in economic impact for the state.

Mayor Carter said the tournament will draw fans who will use local hotels, transit and restaurants, and called the hosting opportunity “a chance to elevate our state as a global sports destination.” Coach Motzko and other hockey witnesses urged lawmakers that Minnesota’s long hockey tradition and community infrastructure make the state a natural host.

Wendy Blackshaw told the committee Minnesota Sports and Events expects the tournament to include 29 games across Minneapolis and St. Paul venues, a fan festival and community initiatives aimed at underserved and indigenous youth. Blackshaw said organizers estimate the tournament will generate more than $5 million in state tax revenue and cited prior events the organization helped bring to Minnesota as evidence of return on investment.

Several senators spoke in favor, citing prior returns for state investments in sporting events. Committee members asked questions about revenue streams, continuity for event organizers and how public funds will be used. Supporters said the requested public funds would be reinvested in local costs, including union labor, public safety permits and operational expenses.

Senate File 1061 was laid over for possible inclusion in the jobs omnibus bill.