In a stunning announcement that has sent shockwaves through the hockey world, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman confirmed today that NHL players will officially participate in the 2026 and 2030 Winter Olympics, marking a triumphant return to international competition after a 12-year hiatus. This monumental decision was unveiled during a press conference in Switzerland, where Bettman emphasized the excitement and importance of showcasing the best talent on the global stage.
The announcement comes after years of uncertainty and frustration for players and fans alike, who have long craved the opportunity to see their favorite stars represent their countries in Olympic play. The last time NHL players graced the Olympic ice was in 2014, with the league opting out of the 2018 and 2022 Games due to disputes over costs and the COVID-19 pandemic. But now, the wait is over, and the stakes have never been higher.
Bettman declared, “We know how important international competition is to our players. This is a great stage for best on best.” The men’s hockey tournament will take place from February 11 to February 22, 2026, in Italy, with games held in Milan and Cortina. The agreement, signed by the NHL, NHL Players’ Association, IIHF, and the International Olympic Committee, not only guarantees participation in 2026 but also in the 2030 Winter Olympics in the French Alps.
The excitement is palpable as the NHL gears up for a new era of international hockey. Bettman highlighted that this collaboration will showcase the incredible sππΎππ and talent of NHL players, while also benefiting the sport on a global scale. NHLPA leader Marty Walsh echoed this sentiment, stating that “best on best international tournaments like the Olympics create extraordinary moments for our players and fans alike.”
In an unprecedented move, the NHL will also revive the World Cup of Hockey, set to take place in 2028 and 2032, ensuring that fans will have major international tournaments to look forward to every two years. This strategic plan aims to elevate the profile of hockey worldwide, with the Four Nations Faceoff held in 2025 serving as a precursor to the upcoming competitions.
With the Olympic Games fast approaching, the NHL will implement significant schedule changes, pausing the 2025-26 season from February 9 to 24 to accommodate the tournament. The All-Star Game for that season has been canceled, replaced by a special Olympic sendoff event at UBS Arena in New York. Countries are already assembling their rosters, with stars like Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby among those expected to don their national colors.
While this announcement marks a new chapter for the NHL, questions remain regarding the participation of Russia, which has been suspended from international play due to doping and war-related sanctions. Bettman stated that this issue will be addressed later by international sports governing bodies.
As the hockey community celebrates this long-awaited return to the Olympics, the implications of Bettman’s announcement are vast and far-reaching. Fans can expect thrilling competitions and unforgettable moments as the best players in the world take to the ice once again. The countdown to 2026 has officially begun, and the excitement is palpable. This is not just a victory for the NHL; itβs a victory for hockey lovers everywhere. The world is watching, and the stage is set for an unforgettable Olympic showdown.