Bandy: The Other Ice Hockey

Often called "the other ice hockey," bandy is a team winter sport played on a large ice surface, where skaters use curved sticks to direct a ball into the opposing team's goal. While it shares similarities with ice hockey, soccer, and field hockey, bandy boasts its own unique history, rules, and cultural significance.

Origins and History

Bandy's roots trace back to stick-and-ball games played in Northern Europe and Russia for centuries. Formal rules were first established in England in the 19th century. The term "bandy" itself is believed to have originated from the Welsh word for "a curved stick". The first official rules were published by the Bury Fen Bandy Club in 1882. Bandy quickly spread across Europe, gaining popularity in countries like Sweden, Russia, and Finland. The sport was even featured in the Nordic Games, a Scandinavian multi-sport event, from 1901 to 1926.

Gameplay and Rules

Bandy is played between two teams of eleven players on an ice surface as large as a soccer field. The objective is to score by hitting a small ball into the opposing team's goal using a curved stick. Like soccer, bandy incorporates rules such as offsides, corner throws, and a designated goalkeeper. However, unlike ice hockey, bandy emphasizes skating skill and strategic play, with less physical contact.

Global Presence

The Federation of International Bandy (FIB), formed in 1955, governs the sport worldwide. The FIB organizes major international tournaments, including the Bandy World Championship for men and women. The 2026 Men's Bandy World Championship was held in Finland from January 12-18, marking the seventh time Finland has hosted the event. Sweden emerged victorious in the 2025 final against Finland. The Women's Bandy World Championship also took place in Pori, Finland, from January 14-18, alongside the men's tournament.

While bandy has a strong following in Nordic countries and Russia, it is gaining traction in other parts of the world, including the United States. Although bandy's popularity has fluctuated, it remains the second-most popular winter sport in some regions and continues to seek wider recognition, including efforts to gain Olympic status and increase national participation. In the U.S., Minnesota has become a hub for bandy, with youth leagues and organized play on the rise. Chris Middlebrook, the president of USA Bandy, recently visited Littleport, England, to explore the sport's origins.

Bandy vs. Ice Hockey

At first glance, bandy may resemble ice hockey, but several key differences set them apart. Bandy is played on a much larger ice surface, demanding greater skating endurance. Bandy uses a ball instead of a puck, and the rules prioritize skill and strategy over aggressive physical play. While ice hockey has gained more mainstream popularity, bandy retains a unique appeal with its blend of skating, stick-handling, and strategic teamwork.

The Future of Bandy

Bandy continues to evolve and adapt in the 21st century. Efforts are underway to increase its visibility through television and digital media. The sport's international governing body is actively working to promote bandy and expand its reach to new countries. Although it faces challenges in competing with ice hockey for resources and attention, bandy's rich history, unique gameplay, and growing global community position it for a bright future as a distinct and exciting winter sport.