Gagarin Cup

Publication date: 10 July 2025

About the Gagarin Cup

The Gagarin Cup is an annual sporting event held as part of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). It was established in 2008, when the KHL was created as a result of the merger of the Russian Superleague and the All-Russian Hockey League. It became the symbol of the highest honour for the team that reached the final and won. The Cup final is played in a series of games to three wins. The team that reaches three wins first becomes the cup winner. These finals attract great fan interest and are broadcast throughout Russia and other countries.

Official KHL website

2026 Gagarin Cup

Exact dates are not yet announced, but traditionally, 2026 KHL playoffs are expected to start in March and finish in May. Sixteen strongest teams across the league will once again compete for Gagarin Cup — eight from West and eight from East. Playoff format stays unchanged: first round will be within conferences, followed by cross-matchups where teams from different sides of the bracket meet.

Main contenders include current champion Lokomotiv, along with strong teams such as Avangard, Ak Bars, SKA, Dynamo Moscow, Metallurg, and others. Competition remains intense, and the season looks highly unpredictable — no obvious favorite so far, and suspense is likely to last until final whistle.

History of the sporting event

The Gagarin Cup was established in 2008 and was named in honour of the famous Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. This tournament was created in order to develop professional hockey and strengthen cooperation between different countries’ clubs.

From the very beginning, the Cup has attracted huge interest among fans. It quickly became one of the most valuable tournaments in the hockey world. All participating teams show a high level of play. The intrigue on the hockey field is always intense. The tension often reaches its peak.

Results and winners of previous competitions

2027 Gagarin Cup

The 2026 Gagarin Cup has not yet taken place. However, we can already predict that the next competition will be filled with unique moments. Fans can expect unforgettable games. Teams will battle for the honour of their cities and countries. Supporters will eagerly wait for the final match. Everyone wants to see who will become the new Cup winner.

Keep an eye on the dates of the Gagarin Cup and other sporting events in our Sporting Events Calendar.