The phrase refers to an international ice hockey tournament featuring teams from four specific nations. This type of competition offers a focused, high-stakes environment for national teams to compete against a select group of rivals, differing from larger world championships that include a broader range of participants. A historical example might be a tournament consisting of Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland competing annually.
These tournaments are significant as they allow for intense rivalries to develop and be showcased regularly. They can serve as crucial preparation for larger international competitions like the World Championships or the Olympics, providing valuable experience for players and a platform for national teams to refine their strategies. Historically, these events have fostered national pride and heightened interest in ice hockey.
