What is the 4 Nations Face-Off structure?

Understanding the 4 Nations Face-Off Format

The 4 Nations Face-Off is an international ice hockey tournament featuring seven games played over a span of approximately one week. The tournament typically takes place in February and involves the participation of four national teams.

Tournament Structure

The 4 Nations Face-Off follows a round-robin format, meaning that each team will play against every other team once. A total of seven games are played, and each team will compete in three games.

Game Format

Matches are played on NHL-sized rinks (200 feet by 85 feet) and are officiated according to NHL rules. Games consist of three 20-minute periods, with a 15-minute intermission between periods.

Scoring and Standings

Standard ice hockey scoring rules apply, with goals scored in regulation time, overtime, or shootout counting towards the team’s total. The standings are determined based on the following criteria:

• Wins (3 points)
• Overtime/shootout wins (2 points)
• Overtime/shootout losses (1 point)
• Losses (0 points)

Finals

After the round-robin portion of the tournament, the top two teams based on points earned will advance to the single-game final. The final is typically held on the last day of the tournament. The winner of the final is declared the champion of the 4 Nations Face-Off.