What's Happening?
Singer-songwriter Role Model has been announced as the headlining performer for the 2026 Discover NHL Winter Classic. This event will feature the Florida Panthers, the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions,
hosting the New York Rangers at loanDepot park in Miami on January 2, 2026. The National Hockey League (NHL) revealed that Role Model will perform during the first intermission and at the NHL PreGame fan festival. The event will be broadcast live on TNT and HBO Max in the U.S., and on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Canada. This marks the first NHL outdoor game in Florida, continuing the tradition of the NHL Winter Classic, which began in 2008.
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of Role Model as the headliner for the NHL Winter Classic highlights the growing intersection of sports and entertainment, aiming to attract a broader audience to the event. The Winter Classic is a significant fixture in the NHL calendar, known for its unique outdoor setting and festive atmosphere. By featuring a popular music artist, the NHL seeks to enhance the fan experience and draw in viewers who might not typically watch hockey. This strategy could potentially increase viewership and attendance, benefiting the league and its partners. Additionally, hosting the event in Florida, a non-traditional hockey market, could help expand the sport's popularity in the region.
What's Next?
Following the Winter Classic, the NHL will continue its outdoor hockey celebrations in Florida with the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. This event will feature the Tampa Bay Lightning against the Boston Bruins on February 1. The success of these events could influence future decisions regarding the location and entertainment aspects of NHL games, potentially leading to more events in non-traditional markets. Stakeholders, including team owners and sponsors, will likely monitor the outcomes to assess the impact on fan engagement and revenue.
