Design to put an extra touch to the 2012 ice hockey world championship in Helsinki

IIHF World Championship games will be played in Helsinki in May 2012. Two global players, World Design Capital Helsinki 2012 and the 2012 ice hockey world championship organization, will collaborate to produce a unique, world-class ice hockey event.

Design is a key part of both ice hockey and major sports events in general. As World Design Capital in 2012, Helsinki seeks to show how well the city understands this and how exceptionally well it can manage the organization of such events.

The goal is to enhance the total sports experience

“We seek to produce the best organized ice hockey world championship ever, from the point of view of the players, the audience and the media,” says Mika Sulin, General Secretary of the Finnish Organizing Committee. “We want to point out that ice hockey and design go together.”

“We aim to work together to produce a sports event that reflects the spirit of the World Design Capital,” says Pekka Timonen, Director of World Design Capital Helsinki 2012. “Our goal is to find new friends for both design and ice hockey.”

The overall experience of both live audiences and those at their TV screens can be enhanced by means of design. Opportunities arise from the overall functionality of the event concept, services at the games, and the information service. The working environment of the media is another important aspect from the point of view of the overall functionality.

The role of design in ice hockey is naturally seen in the players’ equipment and outfits, in various solutions at the arenas, and in the organization of services.

World Design Capital Helsinki 2012 and the organizing committee are currently seeking expert members for their Design Team. The team will play a part in the design and execution of the championship. The collaboration will extend to communications and voluntary work.

Further information at www.2012.iihfworlds.com