The coronavirus has wiped out everything in its path. The global pandemic has forced the cancellation of all kinds of sporting events, including the 2020 Ice Hockey World Championship. This event was to be held in Switzerland, in the cities of Zurich and Lausanne between 8 and 24 May, but on 21 March 2020, it was decided to cancel it.
Why Was This Decision Taken?
The IIHF made the decision on 21 March to suspend the games in Zurich and Lausanne. The IIHF council made this choice because it was practically impossible for both teams and fans to go to Switzerland in May. The organizing committee accepted the verdict, although it expressed its disappointment at the situation.
What Happened to the Purchased Tickets?
All those fans who had bought their tickets for the various games of the 2020 Ice Hockey World Championship had to be reimbursed. In the first week of May, all those who purchased tickets should have received a refund via their email.
Will Switzerland Be Hosting the 2021 Ice Hockey World Championship?
In the first week of May 2020, Switzerland made the decision not to ask for a postponement of its candidacy for 2021. Although the IIHF provided the possibility of holding the games in Zurich and Lausanne next year, Switzerland decided to opt for their definitive cancellation and to continue with the venue schedule, leaving 2021 with the venues of Riga and Minsk.
The Swiss argue that postponing the Ice Hockey World Championship to 2021 would bring with it many financial risks that they do not want to take. The fear that the pandemic will not be under control within a year makes the Swiss prefer to concentrate on planning a World Championship later. This decision has caused sadness to its organizers, as well as to the workers who have been involved in the World Championship for years.