Utah Mammoth to Host 2027 Winter Classic
The Utah Mammoth team will host the Colorado Avalanche in the 2027 Winter Classic, an event that will be held at Rice-Eccles Stadium at the University of Utah, the NHL announced on Wednesday. This game will mark the 47th regular season outdoor game in NHL history, and it will be the first for the Utah franchise, the only team in the league that had not yet participated in an outdoor game. The Mammoth are in their third year of existence, following the purchase of the franchise and the team’s relocation from Arizona by Ryan and Ashley Smith.NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman commented that Utah “has earned” the opportunity to host a major league event “in the shortest time frame that anyone could have imagined.” Bettman also highlighted that from the first conversations with Ryan Smith, the main goal was to bring major events to Utah, including the All-Star Game and an outdoor game. The NHL has not yet revealed the date of the game at the University of Utah’s football stadium. The venue, which hosted the opening ceremony of the 2002 Winter Olympics and will do so again in 2034, is located 4,657 feet above sea level, with panoramic views of the Wasatch mountain range. Smith mentioned the seven ski resorts located 20 minutes from the stadium, and envisions fans combining the Winter Classic with a family ski vacation. He also hopes to showcase the state as an innovative technology hub with the youngest demographic in the country. Smith, a Utah native, stated that his main goal as an owner is to leverage the sport to create meaningful “once-in-a-lifetime” moments that unite the people of Utah.The level of excellence with which they launched this franchise and the reception that NHL hockey has had is more than anyone could have hoped for.
Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner
Smith also highlighted the ease of doing business and the efficiency of the infrastructure in the state, which will allow fans to enjoy a “refreshing” experience during the event.There are a couple of things that are unique in Utah, and number one is obviously what you’ll see around you. You’ll be surrounded by the most epic mountainous landscape you’ve ever seen.
Ryan Smith, Owner of Utah Mammoth
