Today's Stories from Czechia I March 17, 2026
Prague Morning
Prague to host 2028 World Cup of Hockey matches
The NHL has officially announced that the tournament will take place in February 2028 across three cities — Prague, as well as Calgary and Edmonton in Canada. In the Czech capital, games will be held at the O2 Arena, including six group-stage matches and one playoff game. Organizers expect strong fan interest and a high number of international visitors.
Dvorecký Bridge to open on April 18
The new bridge connecting Prague 4 and Prague 5 will primarily serve public transport, with two tram lines (No. 20 and 21) planned, as well as pedestrians, cyclists, and emergency vehicles. A public opening event with an entertainment program is scheduled for April 17.
Thousands still listed as missing in Czech police records
As of early March, 5,771 people were listed as missing in the Czech Republic. This includes 28 children under 15 and 295 minors who have run away from homes or institutions. More than 300 cases date back over 20 years. Police report that 3,500 to 4,000 people are reported missing each year, but most are found quickly, often within hours or days. Many cases are linked to personal issues such as family conflicts or life difficulties.
Czechia offers to lead inspection of Druzhba pipeline
The Czech Republic is prepared to lead an international mission to assess damage to the Druzhba oil pipeline following Russian strikes in Ukraine. Industry Minister Karel Havlíček said in Brussels that a team of European experts could be sent to evaluate the damage and estimate repair timelines. Czech specialists, including from the state company Čepro, could take part. Oil transit through the pipeline to Slovakia and Hungary has been halted since late January.
Hotel investments in Czechia surge to record levels
Hotel sales in Czechia reached €764 million last year, roughly CZK 18.7 billion, marking a fivefold increase compared to 2024. A total of 16 hotels were sold, with more than three quarters of the transactions taking place in Prague, according to Cushman & Wakefield. The figures surpass the previous peak recorded before the Covid-19 pandemic in 2019.
Fuel margins stable despite price surge after Iran conflict
A first analysis by the Finance Ministry suggests that fuel retailers in Czechia have not significantly increased their margins following the recent spike in prices linked to the Iran conflict. Diesel prices have risen sharply since late February, climbing by more than CZK 9 per litre, while petrol has increased by over CZK 4.
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