Yes, Israel Has Ice Hockey. And It Is Coming Back to UBS Arena.

If you have ever told someone that Israel has ice hockey, you already know the reaction.

Wait… there are rinks in Israel?

Yes. Real rinks. Real leagues. Real talent. And the players take it very seriously.

Which is why this next chapter feels so wild in the best way.

The USA Challenge Cup is returning to UBS Arena on February 22, 2026, and this year it is part of a double header that brings Israeli hockey to two iconic North American arenas. The teams will play in New York first, then head to Toronto for a second showdown at the Coca Cola Coliseum on February 24.

Two cities. Two games. One very loud statement that Israeli hockey is here, and it is no joke.

Why this matters

Sports have a special way of cutting through everything. They remind people that Israel is more than headlines. When thousands of fans pack an arena to cheer for Israeli teams, it sends a message that is powerful, positive, and completely unexpected.

It shifts the conversation from tension to pride. From pressure to joy. From politics to people.

There is something special about seeing Israeli flags waving inside two North American arenas within 48 hours. It tells a story no press release can match.

Barzel Media’s role

Barzel Media is returning as the Creative and Media Partner for the Challenge Cup, and we are leveling up everything.

We are leading the digital storytelling, influencer campaigns, brand partnerships, sponsor integrations, and the creative content engine that turns these games into global moments. Our team is shaping the narrative from New York to Toronto and giving partners a chance to reach a massive international audience.

This is more than a sports event. It is one of the most positive and joyful branding opportunities for Israel today.

Why brands and creators should care

Last year’s event attracted partners like Leket Israel, Nefesh B’Nefesh, Vine Ventures, Daily Giving, and Esek. They understood early that hockey offered something fresh and unexpected. Brands could tap into real emotion, real community, and a real story that people wanted to share.

This year the stage is even bigger.

Creators get new storytelling opportunities.

Nonprofits gain a powerful visibility platform.

Sponsors reach crowds in two major North American cities and millions more online.

Everyone gets to be part of something that sparks pride and brings people together.

Get Tickets

• For the UBS Arena game: https://www.ticketmaster.com/2026-usa-challenge-cup-hc-tel-belmont-park-new-york-02-22-2026/event/30006366DC156D10

• For the Toronto game at Coca Cola Coliseum: https://iehl-challenge-cup-toronto-176657234314.us-west1.run.app/#tickets

Toronto ticket availability and updates will be shared shortly.

Want to get involved?

Barzel Media is opening sponsorship, creator partnerships, and media opportunities for both Toronto and New York. If you want in, now is the moment.

Let’s build something unforgettable together.