The IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025 kicks off today in České Budějovice – and the entire nation is hoping for gold! Ice hockey fans from around the world can look forward to top-level sport accompanied by a colourful supporting programme.
The action begins today, Wednesday. Preparations for the championship are complete, and construction work has been finalised. From now on, the world’s best female ice hockey players will compete in the arena in České Budějovice. All games featuring the Czech home team are fully sold out, and the nation is dreaming of a gold medal – just as the men’s team achieved last year with their celebrated World Championship title.
Alongside the thrilling matches, spectators can also enjoy a wide-ranging supporting programme. The organising committee is building on the success of last year’s major championship in Prague and Ostrava by offering fans an experience that extends beyond the stadium. The IIHF WW 2025 promises a unique and friendly atmosphere, where visitors can come together in a relaxed and welcoming spirit.
“Our aim is for visitors to enjoy themselves on Sokolský ostrov, to get into the spirit of the games and soak up the World Championship atmosphere – even if they don’t have a ticket for the arena,” says Jiří Šindler, Secretary General of the Organising Committee of the IIHF Women’s World Championship 2025. He adds: “The concept of the fan zone is inspired by our mascot – a heroine. We want to highlight femininity, celebrate heroines, and showcase their strength and determination. Each day will be dedicated to inspiring personalities who have achieved something extraordinary in their careers and lives.”
A large marquee on Sokolský Island (Sokolský ostrov) will offer seating for 1,200 people, and matches – including those of the Czech national team – will be shown live on a big screen.
Cultural Programme and Partner Activities
The fan zone will be open from today, 9 April, until 15 April from 2pm to 10pm; on Thursday, 17 April from 1pm to 11pm; on the day of the semi-finals (19 April) from 1pm to 10pm; and on the day of the medal ceremony from 10am to 10pm. It will be closed on non-match days, with the exception of South Bohemian University Day on Wednesday 16 April, when it will be open from 9am to 11pm.
Before and between games, a cultural programme and DJ performances will help set the mood. The line-up features artists who appeal to both younger and older audiences. Many of the headline acts are female, including Vesna, Jamaron, and We Are Domi.
The fan zone will also host various competitions and activities organised by championship partners, as well as an official merchandise stand. “Unlike at last year’s IIHF World Championship 2024, where we weren’t able to sell our own merchandise, things are different in České Budějovice. We’ve designed the merchandise to appeal to a wide audience – so visitors can wear their World Cup gear with pride around the city,” adds Jiří Šindler. The merchandise will be available in the large tent on Sokolský ostrov and online via the Czech Hockey website.
Pilsner Urquell is once again an official partner of the IIHF WW 2025, and fans can enjoy it during their visit to Sokolský Island. A pint in the fan zone will cost CZK 70.
Entry to the fan zone is free of charge throughout the tournament.
Plan Ahead – Arrive Early and Use Public Transport!
The organisers are encouraging fans to travel to the arena on foot or by public transport and to avoid bringing unnecessary items. Security checks will be in place both at the arena and in the fan zone, so the organising committee strongly advises against arriving at the last minute.
Further information can be found on the official event website at www.iihf.com or on social media.
IIHF Frauen-Eishockey-Weltmeisterschaft 2025
České Budějovice, 9. bis 20. April 2025
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