2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup Celebrates Growth, Competition and Diversity in Men’s and Women’s Hockey
The recently completed 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup once again demonstrated the growing reach of ice hockey across Latin America, the Caribbean and the international hockey community. The tournament brought together teams representing countries, territories, heritage communities and emerging hockey programs, creating an exciting environment where competition, culture and the development of the sport came together.
Among the highlights of this year’s tournament were the four senior divisions: Men’s Division I, Men’s Division II, Women’s Division I and Women’s Division II. Each division produced its own champion while providing players and programs with an opportunity to compete at a high level and gain valuable international tournament experience.
The 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup has proven once more that hockey transcends borders
Men’s Division I – Cuba Takes the Championship
Cuba captured the Men’s Division I championship, marking an important achievement for the Cuban hockey program.
The Division I competition brought together a strong group of teams and provided some of the tournament’s most competitive hockey. Cuba’s championship reflects the continued development of programs from countries where ice hockey is still an emerging sport.
For Cuba, the LATAM Cup represents an important opportunity to bring players together, build a stronger hockey identity and compete against international opposition. Winning the top men’s division is a significant milestone and gives the program valuable momentum heading into future competitions.
Men’s Division II – Italy Heritage Claims Gold
In Men’s Division II, Italy Heritage emerged as the tournament champion.
The championship highlighted the important role that heritage teams play within the LATAM Cup. These teams bring together players who share cultural and family connections to countries around the world while continuing to develop their hockey skills in North America.
Italy Heritage’s success demonstrates the competitive depth of Division II and the quality of hockey being played throughout the tournament. Their championship run was a fitting reward for a team that competed strongly throughout the event.
Women’s Division I – Caribbean Wins the Championship
The Caribbean captured the Women’s Division I championship, adding another major achievement to the region’s growing presence at the LATAM Cup.
The Caribbean women’s program has become an important part of the tournament’s development story. The team represents the continued growth of women’s hockey and provides players from Caribbean communities with an opportunity to compete, develop and represent their heritage on an international stage.
Winning Women’s Division I is a significant accomplishment and demonstrates the progress being made by women’s programs within the Caribbean hockey community.
The success is particularly meaningful because the LATAM Cup has consistently provided opportunities for women’s hockey programs from non-traditional hockey markets to establish themselves and gain valuable tournament experience.
Women’s Division II – First Nations Earns Gold
One of the most meaningful stories of the tournament came in Women’s Division II, where First Nations won the championship.
The First Nations women’s program represents Indigenous hockey communities and brings together players from across North America. Beyond the competition itself, the team provides an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous identity, culture, community and the role hockey can play in connecting generations.
The championship represents an important milestone for the program. It demonstrates that the team has developed not only as a community initiative but also as a highly competitive hockey program.
The First Nations team’s journey is particularly significant because the LATAM Cup provides a platform where hockey can be used to create connections and visibility for communities that may not always have opportunities to compete on an international stage.
Four Champions, One Common Goal
The four senior division champions — Cuba, Italy Heritage, Caribbean and First Nations — represent four very different hockey stories.
🥇 Men’s Division I: Cuba
🥇 Men’s Division II: Italy Heritage
🥇 Women’s Division I: Caribbean
🥇 Women’s Division II: First Nations
What connects these teams is more than their success on the ice. Each represents a community using hockey to build connections, develop players and create opportunities.
That is ultimately what makes the Amerigol LATAM Cup unique. The tournament is not limited to traditional hockey powers. It provides a platform for emerging nations, heritage teams and communities to compete and grow. Previous editions have included teams from countries and regions where hockey infrastructure is limited, illustrating the tournament’s broader role in expanding the sport.
Growing the Game
The LATAM Cup continues to play an important role in the development of hockey outside its traditional markets. For many participating teams, the tournament provides an opportunity to gain international experience that would otherwise be difficult to obtain.
The value of the event goes beyond wins and losses. Players build friendships, coaches exchange ideas, organizations establish relationships and communities gain greater visibility through the sport.
For women’s hockey in particular, the continued presence and success of teams such as Caribbean and First Nations demonstrates how opportunities for women are expanding within emerging hockey communities.
At the same time, the success of Cuba and Italy Heritage in the men’s divisions shows the depth and diversity of the men’s competition.
Looking Ahead
The conclusion of the 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup is not simply the end of another tournament. It represents another step in the continued development of hockey throughout Latin America, the Caribbean and among international heritage and Indigenous communities.
The championships won by Cuba, Italy Heritage, Caribbean and First Nations will be remembered as important achievements for their respective programs. More importantly, the tournament continues to provide a pathway for players and teams to develop, compete and represent their communities with pride.
As the LATAM Cup continues to grow, its greatest success may ultimately be measured not only by the number of teams or championships, but by the number of new players, new programs and new hockey communities inspired to become part of the game.
The 2026 Amerigol LATAM Cup has once again shown that hockey has no borders — and that when opportunity is created, the game can grow in places where few ever imagined it possible.
In South America, a unique story is unfolding. Ice hockey is becoming more popular in Brazil. This change is thanks to dedicated leaders and events like the Amerigol LATAM Cup.
Jens Hinderlie leads the Brazil national ice hockey team. He has helped the team shine on the world stage. His work has also sparked a growing interest in ice hockey among Brazilians.
The Amerigol LATAM Cup started in 2017 and has boosted ice hockey in Brazil and South America. This tournament lets players from Latin America and the Caribbean show their skills. It’s a chance for them to compete at a high level.
Key Takeaways:
The Amerigol LATAM Cup has been a catalyst for the growth of ice hockey in Brazil and South America.
The tournament has expanded quickly, drawing in more teams and players from the region.
Brazil’s national ice hockey team has improved in international games, encouraging a new wave of players.
Leaders like Jens Hinderlie are pushing the sport forward in Brazil and South America.
The Amerigol LATAM Cup is promoting diversity and inclusion in hockey, highlighting talent from less known hockey countries.
The Birth of Brazil Ice Hockey
In 2007, the journey of ice hockey in Brazil started with the creation of the Brazil Ice Hockey organization. This group aimed to spread the sport among Brazilians at home and abroad. At the same time, the São Paulo Ice Hockey Federation was formed. It played a key role in growing the sport in Brazil’s largest city.
Foundation of Brazil Ice Hockey and São Paulo Federation
The founders saw a big chance for ice hockey in Brazil. They wanted to make the sport more popular among Brazilians. Their goal was to bring ice hockey to new fans and spark a love for the game in Brazil.
Objective: Growing Ice Hockey for Brazilians Worldwide
Brazil Ice Hockey and the São Paulo Federation worked hard to lay a strong base for the sport. They focused on growing ice hockey in Brazil and supporting Brazilians playing abroad. They wanted to create a community and offer resources to fuel a global passion for ice hockey.
Even though ice hockey is a winter sport in a tropical country, its early fans were undeterred. With the creation of Brazil Ice Hockey and the São Paulo Federation, the stage was set for the sport to grow in Brazil.
Brazil’s Inaugural Ice Hockey Tournaments
In 2014, Brazil made its mark in international ice hockey. The country sent its first national team to the Pan American Championship in Mexico. This was a big step for ice hockey in Brazil, showing the sport’s growing popularity.
2014: First National Team at Pan American Championship
The brazil ice hockey team‘s debut at the 2014 Pan American Championship was a highlight for fans. It was Brazil’s first time on the international stage. This showed the hard work and passion of those promoting the sport in the region.
2015: Brazil Wins First Ice Hockey Medal – Bronze
In 2015, the brazilian ice hockey international participation hit a new high. The team won its first-ever medal at the II Pan American Championship in Mexico. This bronze medal showed how fast ice hockey was growing in Brazil.
It proved the brazil ice hockey national team achievements and the growing global recognition of brazilian ice hockey history.
Amerigol LATAM Cup: A Catalyst for Growth
The Amerigol LATAM Cup started in 2018 at the Florida Panthers IceDen. It has helped grow ice hockey in Latin America and the Caribbean. The first tournament had 5 teams and 92 players. It aimed to spread the sport and make it more popular.
2018: Inaugural Tournament at Florida Panthers IceDen
In 2018, the Amerigol LATAM Cup began at the Florida Panthers IceDen. It showed off the ice hockey talent in Latin America and the Caribbean. The event was a big step in making the sport more popular in a new region.
Rapid Expansion: From 5 Teams to Over 30 Teams
After the first Amerigol LATAM Cup, the tournament grew fast. By 2019, it had 21 teams and over 360 players. By 2021, there were 33 teams, more than 650 players, and 2,500 attendees. This shows how popular and successful the Amerigol LATAM Cup has become in growing ice hockey in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The Amerigol LATAM Cup has boosted ice hockey in South America. Brazil‘s involvement shows how the sport is getting more popular there. As it keeps growing, the tournament will be key in developing ice hockey in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Brazil Ice Hockey, Amerigo Latam Cup, South America ice Hockey
Brazil’s ice hockey journey is both inspiring and remarkable. It started from humble beginnings and has grown thanks to the Amerigol LATAM Cup. This tournament has been key in spreading ice hockey across South America.
The Amerigol LATAM Cup began in 2018 with five teams. Now, it has over 30 teams from Latin America and the Caribbean. Countries like Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil are now part of it.
This tournament highlights the growing talent and passion for brazil ice hockey and south american ice hockey. Teams from countries new to hockey, like Brazil, have wowed audiences. They’ve made the sport more popular in the region.
Year
Teams
Highlights
2018
5
Inaugural tournament held at the Florida Panthers IceDen
2022
44
Tournament doubled in size, with 21 countries and territories represented
The Amerigol LATAM Cup‘s growth shows the region’s ice hockey community’s passion and dedication. It’s a platform for brazilian winter sports and ice hockey in South America.
“The Amerigol LATAM Cup has been a transformative event for ice hockey in South America. It has not only brought the region’s teams together but has also ignited a renewed interest in the sport among fans and aspiring players alike.”
Thanks to the international ice hockey community and more investment, brazil ice hockey and south american ice hockey‘s future looks bright.
Youth Development: The Future of Brazilian Ice Hockey
The Amerigol LATAM Cup has focused on young talent with U12 and U16 categories. This is key for growing ice hockey in Brazil and South America.
Brazil’s U12 ice hockey team has won the tournament two years in a row. This shows Brazil’s effort in developing young players. It also shows the potential for more success in the sport.
U12 and U16 Categories at Amerigol LATAM Cup
The amerigol latam cup youth categories let young players show their skills and gain experience. These tournaments help build the next brazil national ice hockey youth teams. They set the stage for the sport’s future in the region.
Brazil’s U12 Team: Back-to-Back Champions
Brazil’s U12 ice hockey team has won the Amerigol LATAM Cup two years running. This success highlights their hard work and talent. It shows Brazil’s dedication to south american ice hockey youth programs and brazil ice hockey youth development efforts.
The Cup’s focus on youth has sparked a new love for ice hockey in Brazil and South America. This investment in young players will shape the future of brazil ice hockey youth champions. It will also help grow the sport in the region.
Challenges and Opportunities
The growth of ice hockey in Brazil and South America is promising. Yet, the region faces a big challenge: not enough ice rinks. This shortage makes it hard to grow the sport and engage more players, especially at the start.
Lack of Ice Rinks in Brazil and South America
The main hurdle to growing ice hockey infrastructure in brazil is the lack of ice rinks in south america. Without enough rinks, it’s tough to build a strong ice hockey community. It also makes it hard to train and compete with other players.
The challenges for ice hockey development in brazil get worse because of little south american ice hockey funding and private investment in brazilian ice hockey. This means there’s not enough money for new facilities or keeping the ones we have. It’s a big hurdle for ice sports development in brazil.
Government Support and Private Investment Needed
Brazil and other South American countries need more brazil ice hockey government support and private money to build more ice rinks. This money is key to creating the right places for ice hockey to grow. It will help more people get involved in the sport.
By putting money into ice hockey infrastructure in brazil, governments and private groups can help the sport flourish. This will make ice hockey bigger in Brazil and South America. It will also help with the overall growth of ice sports growth in Brazil.
Going Global: LATAM Cup Expands Beyond Borders
The Amerigol LATAM Cup began as a regional ice hockey event in Latin America and the Caribbean. Now, it reaches players worldwide. This shows the tournament’s aim to make ice hockey open and welcoming to everyone.
Recently, teams from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia have joined the LATAM Cup. This mix of teams brings new styles and views to the game.
Year
Number of International Teams
Participating Regions
2018
5
Latin America, Caribbean
2019
10
Latin America, Caribbean, Europe
2022
15
Latin America, Caribbean, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia
The Amerigol LATAM Cup has grown beyond its roots in Latin America and the Caribbean. This shows how popular ice hockey is worldwide. The tournament brings together players from different places, making the sport more known in new areas.
“The Amerigol LATAM Cup has become a platform for showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of ice hockey. It’s exciting to see teams from all over the world competing and sharing their passion for the sport.”
The Amerigol LATAM Cup is set to grow even more. It will help ice hockey grow globally, encouraging more people to play. It also builds a worldwide community that goes beyond borders.
NHL’s Involvement and “This is Hockey” Series
The National Hockey League (NHL) and the NHL Players’ Association are key supporters of ice hockey in Latin America and the Caribbean. They use the NHL’s International Growth Fund to back initiatives that boost the sport in these areas.
NHL Growth Fund and Series Spotlighting Latin Teams
The “This is Hockey” documentary series is a big part of this effort. It’s made by NHL Studios. It focuses on the passion and hard work of ice hockey teams and players in Latin America.
This series aims to connect the NHL with these new markets. It does this by showing the grassroots efforts and the commitment of local communities. This helps drive the sport’s growth worldwide.
Connecting with New Audiences and Potential Fans
The “This is Hockey” series is a way for the NHL to reach new fans in Latin America and beyond. It tells the stories of players and teams that are making ice hockey popular in these areas. The NHL wants to inspire a new generation of fans this way.
This is important for the league’s global growth. It helps make sure ice hockey stays popular around the world.
Diversity and Inclusion on the Ice
The Amerigol LATAM Cup is a key event for diversity in ice hockey and promoting inclusion. It brings together teams from non-traditional hockey nations from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. These teams get to show off their skills and love for the game, adding to the international participation in Latin American ice hockey.
The Cup’s motto is “ice hockey for all,” pushing for the sport to be open to everyone. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or your background. This fits well with the goal of global ice hockey development and making the sport available to all who love it.
Teams from Non-Traditional Hockey Nations
What makes the Amerigol LATAM Cup special is the teams from non-traditional hockey nations. These teams come from places where ice hockey isn’t the top sport. Yet, they’ve taken to the game with great passion and effort. Their presence shows how the tournament and the sport can cross over geographical and cultural lines.
Promoting Hockey for All, Regardless of Background
The Cup goes beyond just having teams from different places. It’s all about making sure “hockey is for everyone.” The event makes sure the sport is open to all, no matter your age, gender, or where you come from. This matches the aim of diversity in sports and shows that ice hockey should be for everyone who loves it.
The Future of Ice Hockey in Brazil and South America
The 2023 Amerigol LATAM Cup is bringing new excitement to ice hockey in Brazil and South America. Over 50 teams, 1,000 players, and more than 3,000 fans are expected to join. Adding U12, U14, U16, and U20 age categories shows a big push to grow the sport’s talent.
Projections for 2023 Amerigol LATAM Cup
The 2023 Amerigol LATAM Cup is set to be a big deal for ice hockey in Brazil and South America. From 5 teams in the first year to over 50 now, the tournament is growing fast. This growth will help make ice hockey more popular in Latin America.
Long-Term Goals: Infrastructure and Talent Development
Looking ahead, the main goals are to build more ice rinks and support local talent. This will help ice hockey grow and succeed in South America. Programs for young players will keep bringing in skilled athletes, pushing the sport forward in Brazil and beyond.
The future looks bright for ice hockey in Brazil and South America. The 2023 Amerigol LATAM Cup will help the sport grow even more. With focus on infrastructure and young talent, the region is building a strong base for ice hockey’s future.
Conclusion
This article has taken you on an amazing journey. It shows how ice hockey in Brazil and South America has grown. From the early days of Brazil Ice Hockey and the São Paulo Ice Hockey Federation to the Amerigol LATAM Cup, we’ve seen big progress and a lot of potential.
The NHL has played a big role in supporting this growth. With more diversity and focus on young players, ice hockey’s future in Brazil and South America looks bright. This means more growth, success, and the chance to win over new fans across the continent.
North America leads in ice hockey, but its influence goes far and wide. It has sparked a love for the sport in places you might not expect. Brazil and South America are now strong contenders, ready to make their mark in ice hockey history.
