At a Glance
- Rangers defeat Panthers 5-1 in Miami’s 2026 Winter Classic.
- Attendance 36,153, the second-warmest NHL game at 63°F.
- The game featured fireworks, artificial snow, and Luis Fonsi’s performance.
- Why it matters: It marks the first outdoor NHL game in Florida and showcases hockey’s growing popularity in the Sunshine State.
The 2026 Winter Classic kicked off at loanDepot Park in Miami, where the New York Rangers beat the Florida Panthers 5-1 in a sold-out, record-warm game. Fans, including former quarterback Tom Brady, filled the streets hours before the puck dropped, and the event featured fireworks, artificial snow, and a performance by Luis Fonsi.
Game Overview
The retractable roof opened just before puck drop, revealing a dark sky and the Miami skyline. The ceremonial puck drop was performed by Hall of Famer Roberto Luongo.
Atmosphere & Crowd
A sold-out crowd of 36,153 filled the stadium, and celebrity attendees included Tom Brady. Fireworks, artificial snow, and a performance by Luis Fonsi added to the spectacle.
- Sold-out crowd of 36,153
- Celebrity attendees, including Tom Brady
- Fireworks, artificial snow, and Luis Fonsi performance
Public address announcer stated:
> “They said it couldn’t be done, they said it shouldn’t be done. But tonight, history and modern science meet here in the Sunshine State.”
Players & Comments
Florida center Anton Lundell reflected on the unique experience. Rangers forward Will Cuylie discussed the all-white attire.
Anton Lundell said:
> “I would have never thought that I would play in a Winter Classic in Miami and be a part of this cool experience. Obviously we still have the game left, but everything building up to this game has been awesome. It’s been very unique and an experience we’re all going to remember for the rest of our lives.”
Will Cuylie added:
> “We thought the all-white was a good solution for that.”
Paul Maurice described his arrival and the fan turnout.
> “I was happily on the bus. I took about 10 minutes just to think about that idea. How much different the game was 30 years ago, 20 years ago that you’re in Miami, you’ve got your whole team getting in the Ferraris. I didn’t really think there would be that many fans outside. It was like a version of our parade. It is an awesome spectacle. The game itself – not just in Florida – but the pure hockey game, for me, is better than it’s ever been.”
Bill Zito shared his full-circle moment.
> “The lessons I learned from that experience impact me, and really then via me, our organization on a daily basis. I’m not here today if I hadn’t had that good fortune.”
Bill Zito continued:
> “I forgot, it’s a clubhouse.”
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Score | Rangers 5 – Panthers 1 |
| Attendance | 36,153 |
| Temperature | 63 °F |
| Date | Friday, 2026 Winter Classic |
It was the first outdoor NHL game in Florida.
Key Takeaways
- Rangers won 5-1 over Panthers in Miami’s record-warm Winter Classic.
- The game drew a sold-out crowd of 36,153 and featured fireworks and artificial snow.
- The event marked the first outdoor NHL game in Florida, held at loanDepot Park.
The 2026 Winter Classic demonstrated that outdoor hockey can thrive in warm climates, bringing a historic moment to Miami.
News Of Austin Sports Writer Isaac Y. Thornwell contributed.
