Home / Sports / Miami Marlins Park Hosts Historic Winter Classic
Miami Marlins Park Hosts Historic Winter Classic
3 Jan
Summary
- The 2026 Winter Classic took place outdoors in Miami.
- Florida Panthers and New York Rangers participated in the event.
- The game was held at loanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins.
The 2026 Winter Classic brought an unprecedented outdoor hockey experience to South Florida, with the Florida Panthers hosting the New York Rangers at loanDepot Park. The unique setting, home to Major League Baseball's Miami Marlins, featured a retractable roof opened for the game. Players embraced the local flair, arriving in themed attire for the historic event, the first of its kind in the Sunshine State.
For Panthers executive Bill Zito, the game represented a full-circle moment, bridging his early career in baseball with his current role in hockey. Zito, who once served as a batboy for the Milwaukee Brewers, drew parallels between lessons learned in baseball and his leadership in hockey operations. The transition back to a baseball venue provided a nostalgic touch for the executive.
The anticipation for the game was palpable, with an expected sold-out crowd filling the streets around the ballpark hours before puck drop. Despite the warm climate, ice builders worked to create a suitable playing surface, highlighting the logistical efforts involved in bringing a winter sport event to Florida.
