Articles / NHL, NHLPA, IIHF, IOC officially sign 2026 Olympic agreement

NHL, NHLPA, IIHF, IOC officially sign 2026 Olympic agreement

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Daily Faceoff
Jul 2, 2025 2:21 PM

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The NHL, NHLPA, IIHF, and IOC have officially signed an agreement that paves the way for NHL players to compete in the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. This landmark deal ensures that the league's top talents can showcase their skills on an international platform after the NHL previously opted out of the 2022 Beijing Olympics. Stars like Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, and Nathan MacKinnon are expected to take center stage, representing Canada, the USA, and various countries in a highly competitive tournament.

In addition to the agreement for the 2026 Olympics, the focus has also shifted towards the 2030 Winter Games. With discussions underway, experts anticipate new possibilities for growth in NHL participation. As the international hockey community looks to build on the success of previous tournaments, the excitement continues to build around the involvement of elite athletes.

The involvement of players from the NHL allows for an enriching experience for fans and athletes alike, as the Olympics brings together diverse talents from across the globe. The last event saw players like Sidney Crosby and Patrick Kane showcase their abilities, and the return of NHL players in 2026 promises to reignite that competitive spirit. With the agreement set in place, hockey fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and the celebration of the sport at its highest level.