EURO Prospects Challenge

Launched in 2023 by the EVZ and three other founding members, the “EVZ Prospects Challenge” has become a success story.

The EVZ Prospects Challenge made its debut in the summer of 2023. Its goal is to give young players and coaches the opportunity to gain international experience at the club level shortly before the start of the season. The four founding members are EVZ, Rögle BK, Red Bull Salzburg, and IFK Helsinki. Tappara Tampere has since taken IFK Helsinki’s place. And: Starting this year, the tournament is now called the “EURO Prospects Challenge.”

Past winners:

• 2023: IFK Helsinki
• 2024: IFK Helsinki
• 2025: Rögle BK
• 2026: Växjö Lakers

The third edition of the Prospects Challenge took place a year ago in Zug. The Zug U21 Elite Team won its group and wasn’t defeated until the final against Rögle BK. Second place is nonetheless an outstanding achievement for the Zug juniors.

The fourth edition took place from August 20 to 23, 2026, in Sweden. Rögle BK served as the host. As in previous years, the organizer invited two guest teams in addition to the four founding members (with Tampere replacing Helsinki). Rögle awarded these wild cards to the Växjö Lakers (SWE) and Trinec (CZE). The EVZ finished the tournament in sixth place for once after three close losses to Rögle BK, Trinec, and Tappara Tampere. The Växjö Lakers triumphed in an all-Swedish final to win the 2026 edition.

Next year, the EURO Prospect Challenge will take place in Munich or Salzburg.

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