World Junior A Challenge 2025/26

The World Junior A Challenge is an annual international ice hockey tournament for under-19 players. It operates at the Junior A level, which sits below the Major Junior tier in the Canadian hockey structure. The event is organised by Hockey Canada and the Canadian Junior Hockey League, formerly the Canadian Junior A Hockey League, under the authority of the International Ice Hockey Federation.

The competition brings together four teams each year. Canada sends two squads: Canada East and Canada West. These sides are made up of players from regional leagues across the country. Team Canada West draws from western circuits, while Team Canada East selects from eastern competitions. The other two berths go to invited national teams. The United States and Sweden are regular guests. Other nations, including Russia, have taken part in previous years.

The format has changed over time. Earlier editions featured more teams and a group stage. Since 2022, four sides play a round-robin schedule followed by medal games. Participation is by invitation only. There is no promotion or relegation system. The tournament was suspended in 2020 and 2021 because of the pandemic.

The United States holds the record for most victories. As of 2025, they have won eleven gold medals. Team Canada West has claimed six titles. Team Canada East has never won the championship but has taken silver and bronze medals. The 2025 edition was played in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, and ended with a win for the USA. Some former players have gone on to play in the National Hockey League.