Canada celebrate their win, watched by a record audience ©IIHF

The thrilling final of the 2020 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Junior Championship, between Russia and Canada in the Czech Republic, attracted a record television audience.

More than 17 million people watched the match live on Channel One in Russia earlier this month.

Taking into account the online broadcast on the station's website, the figure then rises to 20 million.

In comparison to previous World Junior Championships, viewing figures for the Russian national team increased three to five times.

Statistics provided by Mediascope reveal 14 per cent of the population (ages 4+) watched the Russia vs Canada final live in the country.

Russia actually defeated Canada 6-0 in the group stages, but couldn't get over the line in the final ©IIHF
Russia actually defeated Canada 6-0 in the group stages, but couldn't get over the line in the final ©IIHF

Unfortunately for Russian viewers, their team failed to lift the trophy.

A sell-out crowd of nearly 9,000 attended Ostravar Aréna, with Russia holding a 3-1 lead in the third period.

However, Canada found a way back into the game, with Akil Thomas scoring the winning goal with just under four minutes remaining to complete the 4-3 victory.

Organisers were praised by IIHF President René Fasel, with the event having been broadcast in a record number of 12 countries.

The 2021 event will be hosted in Edmonton and Red Deer, Canada.