NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman teases 'unique' destination for Winter Classic 2026

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has hinted at an unexpected location for the 2026 Winter Classic. Bettman described the choice as "unusual" and "unique," suggesting some may think the league has "lost its mind."

NHL insider Armando Velez shared this update online on Tuesday, adding that an official announcement is expected next week.

"'It's gonna be unusual, it's gonna be unique. Some people think that we have lost our minds.' - Gary Bettman said when talking about when the next WinterClassic will be held," Velez wrote.

The Winter Classic is held every year on or around New Year’s Day. It is an outdoor game that brings hockey back to its roots. Past games have been held in football and baseball stadiums in the U.S., like Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. The 2014 game at Michigan Stadium set an NHL attendance record with over 105,000 fans.

Bettman’s comments suggest the 2026 game may break from tradition. This is one of the NHL’s most popular events, and its outdoor setting reminds fans of hockey’s early days on ponds. Over the years, the league has made bold choices to keep the event fresh and exciting, and the Winter Classic 2026 could be its most creative effort.

St. Louis Blues continue dominance over Blackhawks in Winter Classic tournaments

On Tuesday, the St. Louis Blues defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 6-2 in the NHL Winter Classic 2025 at Wrigley Field. The Blues started strong, scoring less than two minutes into the game. Cam Fowler, playing his 1,000th NHL game, scored a power-play goal with a pass from Pavel Buchnevich, giving the Blues a 1-0 lead. Jordan Kyrou made it 2-0 at 8:10 in the first period with another power-play goal.

The Blackhawks responded later in the first period. Taylor Hall scored on a power play at 15:26, cutting the lead to 2-1. In the second period, Justin Faulk increased the Blues’ lead to 3-1 at 7:15.

Dylan Holloway made it 4-1 after scoring off a rebound from Faulk’s shot. Cam Fowler scored his second goal at 17:51, extending the lead to 5-1.

The Blackhawks added their second goal in the third period. Tyler Bertuzzi scored on a power play at 11:15, with Connor Bedard assisting. The Blues finished the scoring at 16:18 when Alexandre Texier scored on a rebound to make it 6-2.

The Blues had 12 players earn points in the game, while Jordan Binnington made 28 saves. The win improved the Blues’ record in Classic games to 3-0. Chicago is still waiting for its first win in five Winter Classic appearances.