Team Great Britain will host the Pre-Qualifying Round for the Winter Olympics at Cardiff’s Vindico Arena in February 2024, Ice Hockey UK announced Friday [6 October].
Pete Russell’s squad will face Romania, China, and a qualifier from the previous round in a four-team tournament held across a four-day span, starting on Thursday 8 February.
Whichever squad finishes top of the table will advance to the Final Qualifying Round, competing for a spot at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy.
It is the second time in four years that the United Kingdom will provide the backdrop for the Pre-Qualifying Round, with the previous tournament held at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena.
Pete Russell, Team GB (Image: Dean Woolley)
“It’s going to be a special event,” said Ice Hockey UK chief executive Henry Staelens.
“It’s great to be taking GB Men’s hockey to Cardiff, who have been really good to work with [on planning the tournament] I’m sure that fans will pack the place out and create a brilliant atmosphere as we aim to progress to the next round.”
Cardiff Devils managing director Todd Kelman added: “We are pleased to be able to host such a prestigious event and look forward to working with Ice Hockey UK to bring this tournament to Vindico Arena, with plenty of fans cheering on Team GB.”
Analysis: Team GB secure home ice advantage for Olympic Pre-Qualifying Round
It’s never a bad thing to play on home ice and Team GB will relish the opportunity to play their first round of Olympic Qualifiers in Cardiff next year.
While Pete Russell’s squad fell short the last time they hosted the tournament, the continued emergence of Liam Kirk and Cade Neilson could help Team GB come out on top against Romania, China, and whichever team advances from round one.
Cardiff Devils supporters often pack the Vindico Arena, creating a difficult atmosphere for away squads to play in.
If they turn out in similar numbers for the national team, it could be a week to remember for Russell and Co.
