The dates for the World Championship (Division 1B) at the SSE Arena in Belfast have been confirmed, with the tournament taking place from Sunday 23rd April to Saturday 29th April 2017.

Great Britain will host Croatia, Estonia and Lithuania, as well as Japan who were relegated from Division 1A and Netherlands who were promoted back from Division 2A this year.

Plans are already advanced for the six-team tournament, with Ice Hockey UK (IHUK), Belfast Giants and the SSE Arena all working together for this showpiece event.

IHUK general secretary, Andy French, said: “It has been a crazy few weeks since we were announced as the winning bid.

“This is one of the most exciting moments in UK ice hockey and it will be a fantastic event.

“People have asked for a long time when is it going to be the UK’s turn to host a men’s World Championship – and now it is really happening.”

Steve Thornton, head of hockey operations for Belfast Giants, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has sent messages of support following the announcement.

“We are excited that many of you are already planning your trip to watch Team GB in a home tournament for the first time in 25 years.

“Now that the dates are set, we are looking forward to hosting an unforgettable 2017 World Championship in Belfast.”

(Image permission: IceHockeyMedia)