Guelph & Kitchener: 2027 Memorial Cup Finalists
- Guelph and Kitchener, Ontario, are the finalists to host the 2027 Memorial Cup, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced on September 4, 2025.
- The finalists were chosen by the 2027 Memorial Cup Site Selection Committee, an independent panel of five individuals with experience in sports. The committee will also select the...
- Both Guelph and Kitchener will submit formal written bids, which will be evaluated across four categories: business operations, community engagement and atmosphere, event logistics, and hockey operations.
Guelph and Kitchener Vie to Host the 2027 Memorial Cup
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Guelph and Kitchener, Ontario, are the finalists to host the 2027 Memorial Cup, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced on September 4, 2025. The winning bid is expected to be revealed between late November and early December 2025.
Selection process and evaluation Criteria
The finalists were chosen by the 2027 Memorial Cup Site Selection Committee, an independent panel of five individuals with experience in sports. The committee will also select the winning bid after a extensive evaluation process.
Both Guelph and Kitchener will submit formal written bids, which will be evaluated across four categories: business operations, community engagement and atmosphere, event logistics, and hockey operations. The selection process includes formal presentations and site visits.
Guelph and Kitchener’s Hockey History
CHL president Dan MacKenzie highlighted the deep-rooted tradition of junior hockey in both Guelph and Kitchener. He noted the devoted fan bases and the important role each city has played in shaping junior hockey’s history.
The Kitchener Rangers have hosted the Memorial Cup four times (1962, 1975, 1984, 2008), while the Guelph Storm hosted in 2002.
Local Enthusiasm for the Bid
Matt Newby, vice-president of business operations for the Guelph Storm, expressed his excitement about being a finalist. He noted that hosting the Memorial Cup in Guelph during the city’s bicentennial would be an incredible honour.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Memorial Cup will be held in Kelowna, British Columbia. The CHL anticipates announcing the winning host for the 2027 tournament between late November and early December 2025.