Salt Lake City, Utah — The Winter Classic will make its way to Utah, where the Utah Mammoth are set to face off against the Colorado Avalanche in 2027. The game will take place at Rice-Eccles Stadium, a scenic venue that has a storied history, including hosting events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. The exact date for the matchup is yet to be announced.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed his enthusiasm for the announcement, highlighting the remarkable growth of the franchise since its inception in April 2024. Bettman acknowledged the contributions of team co-owners Ryan and Ashley Smith, praising the overwhelming support from fans and the community. “What we’re witnessing here is just incredible,” he stated, reinforcing the significance of this event for the franchise and its supporters.

The Winter Classic is known for spotlighting outdoor hockey in an iconic setting, and the Mammoth are eager to partake in this tradition. Forward Logan Cooley shared his excitement, reflecting on childhood memories spent at outdoor rinks and dreaming of such an opportunity. “Growing up, the Winter Classic always felt magical, and now being able to participate in it right here in Utah is truly a dream come true,” he noted.

Since its establishment, the Mammoth have made impressive strides. The team acquired the assets of the Arizona Coyotes, quickly set up a temporary training facility, and initiated renovations of the Delta Center, where they recently wrapped up their first season. This progress has laid a strong foundation for their future as a competitive team.

The unveiling of the Mammoth’s new brand and the completion of a dedicated practice facility reflect the franchise’s commitment to building a sustainable hockey culture in Utah. The team has attracted dedicated fans to games at Delta Center, creating a vibrant atmosphere this season.

Rice-Eccles Stadium, which seats over 54,000 spectators, is not just known for college football but also for its significance in Olympic history. Hosting both the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Games, it became a symbol of triumph for U.S. hockey fans when the legendary 1980 team lit the Olympic cauldron.

As the Mammoth gear up for this monumental occasion, Ryan Smith emphasized the importance of creating an accessible and engaging environment for fans. He believes that the venue will offer a unique vantage point for spectators, making the game more enjoyable. “We wanted to ensure that not just our players could thrive here, but that the entire community would come together to celebrate our sport,” he said.

Smith also highlighted the opportunity this event presents for educating the local population about hockey. By integrating the sport into the community’s fabric, the Mammoth aim for a lasting impact that reaches beyond just the game itself. “We’re excited to be able to foster a richer understanding of hockey and its culture here in Utah, showing everyone the joy the sport can bring,” he added.

As anticipation builds for the Winter Classic, the Mammoth are poised to mark a significant chapter in Utah’s sports landscape, making hockey a part of the community’s celebrations for years to come.