The event, due to be held at the SSE Arena, is scheduled to take place between April 23 and April 29. 

Great Britain will host Croatia, Estonia and Lithuania, as well as Japan, who were relegated from Division 1, Group A and Netherlands, who were promoted back from Division 2, Group A this year.

Plans are already advanced for the six-team tournament, with Ice Hockey UK (IHUK), Belfast Giants and the SSE Arena all working together for this showpiece event.

“It has been a crazy few weeks since we were announced as the winning bid," Andy French, general secretary of the IHUK, said. 

“This is one of the most exciting moments in UK ice hockey and it will be a fantastic event.

“People have asked for a long time when is it going to be the UK’s turn to host a men’s World Championship – and now it is really happening.”

The Belfast Giants play their home matches in Britain's Elite Ice Hockey League at the SSE Arena, which has a capacity of 7,200. 

“I would like to thank everyone who has sent messages of support following the announcement," siad Steve Thornton, head of hockey operations for Belfast Giants. 

“We are excited that many of you are already planning your trip to watch Team GB in a home tournament for the first time in 25 years.

“Now that the dates are set, we are looking forward to hosting an unforgettable 2017 World Championship in Belfast.”

Britain has finished runners-up in consecutive years of Division I, Group B of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championships.

At this year's tournament in Zagreb, Britain missed out on promotion to Division I, Group A when they lost 2-1 to Ukraine having gone into the match needing only a point to finish top.

The event in Norther Ireland has received the backing of the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Brian Kingston.

“Without the ongoing support of the City Council, hosting the World Championship would not be possible," said French.