The German national ice hockey teamt is preparing for the 2026 Ice Hockey World Championship in Switzerland next April and May – and the crowning conclusion of this preparation is Sunday, May 10, 2026, at 17 p.m.r an absolute highlight in the SAP Arena Mannheim: Germany against the USAA thrilling test of strength against the reigning world champions – and the final assessment of the team's position before the big tournament, which begins just five days later.
The USA: World champions with renewed title ambitions
The United States comes as reigning world champion to Mannheim. In the dramatic 2025 World Cup final in Stockholm, they defeated Switzerland 1-0 thanks to a goal by NHL striker Tage Thompson in overtime, crowning themselves world champions for the first time since 1960. A team full of NHL stars, hungry talents, and with the absolute will to stay at the top – also at the 2026 World Cup. The USA, like the DEBThe selection will play in Zurich, meaning both teams will meet in the group stage, as they often do in previous years.
Explosiveness guaranteed: The recent history of the game
Germany and the USA are old acquaintances and regularly meet at the World Championships. In 2025 (6-3) and 2024 (6-1), the USA prevailed in the group stage duels. But who doesn't remember the 2023 semifinal in Tampere? After a 2-3 defeat in the group stage, Germany turned things around at the decisive moment: Frederik Tiffels scored the 4-3 winner in the 68th minute and fired the DEB-Team to the final – a moment that will remain unforgettable!
Intense duels, fast ice hockey and an international top competition – all this awaits the Fans in Mannheim. It's the final test before the World Cup, a direct comparison with the world's best, and a chance to loudly cheer on the national team and strengthen them on their way to Switzerland.
“The USA, as reigning world champions, are the perfect benchmark for our World Cup preparation,” explains Christian Künast, Sports Director of the DEB"This game offers us the opportunity to compete with a top nation in international ice hockey immediately before the tournament and to gain important insights. With the USA, an opponent comes to Mannheim who operates at the highest technical and tactical level. For our team, this is the ideal assessment of our position – and for our Fans A highlight just before our departure for Switzerland. We're looking forward to a thrilling duel in a fantastic atmosphere."
Germany vs. USA in Mannheim: Get your tickets now!
Tickets for the top duel Germany vs. USA are now available in all categories in the following shops:
All other international match dates for the 2026 World Cup preparations will be announced in the coming weeks.