The concept of dynamic 3-on-3 ice hockey gained traction starting around the 2017/18 season, achieving notable recognition through a successful showcase at the Lausanne 2020 Youth Olympic Games.
This positive reception propelled 3x3 into the IIHF's strategic plans for expanding the sport, with an early vision targeting inclusion in the 2030 Olympic Winter Games. Following a successful competitive event at the 2024 Youth Olympics in Korea, the IIHF has continued to refine the 3x3 format. The official game guidelines are nearing final approval, and the federation is focused on submitting a compelling bid to the International Olympic Committee before their deadline.
The inclusion of 3x3 in the Olympics is seen as a significant opportunity to involve more hockey players, particularly those from emerging hockey nations. The 3x3 game's smaller team sizes and rink requirements make it more accessible and affordable, potentially leveling the playing field between established hockey powers and developing countries, aligning with the IIHF's goals for greater accessibility and appeal (ICE26).
Danny Meyers, a former Great Britain international who has invested in a dedicated 3x3 rink, believes the format is excellent for developing well-rounded player skills, quick decision-making, and skating abilities that translate to the 5-on-5 game. He also notes its exciting nature for coaches and fans, with high-scoring, end-to-end action that offers a faster pace compared to traditional hockey, similar to the success of 3x3 basketball and T20 cricket in attracting new audiences.
Looking ahead, the IIHF is set to officially submit its bid for 3x3's inclusion in the 2030 Winter Olympics in early 2025, with the IOC's decision expected later in the year. Parallel to this, the IIHF is actively developing the 3x3 scene, with plans for a Men's 3x3 series in 2025 and the launch of a qualification pathway for the inaugural IIHF Eight Nations 3x3 World Championship in 2026, which will become an annual event for both men's and women's teams.
(Source: Based on information from the IIHF official news article regarding their Olympic 3x3 bid and development plans.)
The big deadline is January 2025, when the IIHF makes an official submission of interest in adding a new ice hockey discipline to the OWG 2030 Discipline Evaluation Program. The first questionnaire must be submitted by March 30 and the IOC will make a final decision in Q4 2025. If the bid is successful, it would pave the way for 3x3 hockey to feature at the 2030 Winter Olympic Games in France. That, in turn, could allow up to 240 more hockey players to take part in the Olympics – further broadening the reach and appeal of the game.
Meanwhile, more 3x3 events are in the pipeline. After November’s IIHF Women’s 3x3 series in Brazil, 2025 will bring an IIHF Men’s 3x3 series in April or May. Applications are already underway to choose a host. In addition, there will be two stages of regional IIHF Nations League Qualification. This will determine the competitors for the inaugural IIHF EIGHT NATIONS 3x3 World Championship in 2026. That will be the start of an annual World Championship for men and women, much like the existing 5x5 structure.
The inaugural Hype 3x3 Hockey 8 Nations Cup at the Xiaomi Arena in Riga kicked off on July 18, 2026, with an electrifying display of speed, skill, and raw intensity that captivated fans. This landmark event, the first of its kind in Europe, showcased a new era of professional 3x3 hockey, featuring star-studded rosters from eight different countries including Latvia, Finland, Sweden, and Germany.
Marupe, June 28, 2026 — For the fourth time, the Hype 3x3 Hockey Tournament descended upon Marupe — and for the fourth time, it delivered everything fans could ask for: speed, drama, and a champion worthy of the title. When the final buzzer sounded on Sunday evening, it was Sherwood lifting the trophy after a gripping 3–2 victory over HK Kolumbs in a final that had spectators on the edge of their seats from first drop to last.
The 3x3 hockey format continues to captivate both athletes and fans, offering a dynamic, high-intensity version of the game where every second counts, and mastery of stick-handling and physical endurance take center stage. On June 5–6, 2026, the Estonian city of Tartu hosted the second tournament of the Hype 3x3 Hockey series, an event organized by the Latvian 3x3 Hockey Federation (Hype Hockey). This series has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting highlights in the Baltic hockey calendar
Latvian 3X3 hockey federation
Grāvkalnu iela 38 - 1. Mārupe, LV-2167. Latvia
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