Canada led by Sidney Crosby won gold in 2014. © APA/epa / LARRY W. SMITH

Now it's official: NHL stars are heading to the Olympics

Ice hockey fans in Italy and around the world are celebrating: As the National Hockey League (NHL) announced on Friday during the All-Star Game in Toronto, Canada, the best players will appear at the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina .

02. February 2024

From: leo

In recent years, NHL players have repeatedly expressed their desire to be at the Olympic Games. However, due to numerous differences between the world association IIHF and the best league in the world, this did not happen. NHL professionals last played at the Winter Olympics in Sochi in 2014.

In 2018, disagreements over insurance and travel costs as well as the large time difference between South Korea and North America prevented participation, and four years later the corona pandemic in Beijing. After long negotiations, the IIHF and the NHL have now found common ground. This means that the home fans will get to see Connor McDavid & Co. up close.

Also there in 2030

“NHL players take great pride in representing their countries,” NHL boss Gary Bettman said in a statement. “We are pleased that today, after intensive joint efforts with the NHL Players Association and the International Ice Hockey Federation, we can officially announce that NHL players will participate in the 2026 and 2030 Olympic tournaments.” Where the 2030 Games will take place is still to be determined uncertain.