NHL Returns to Olympics for the First Time Since 2014
In a groundbreaking announcement, the NHL has confirmed its official return to the Olympics. This news comes after a long absence from the games since 2014. According to TSN and Chris Johnston, the league will unveil this exciting development alongside the highly anticipated Four Nations Tournament in Milan in 2026.
The Four Nations Tournament, set to take place in February 2025, will showcase national teams from powerhouse hockey nations such as the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Finland. This tournament serves as a prelude to the grand event in 2026, where the world’s best hockey players will compete for Olympic glory.
The NHL’s decision to embrace international play is a significant step towards expanding its global presence. During the annual Board of Governors meeting in December, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman expressed the league’s desire to return to the international stage. He envisions a future filled with thrilling best-on-best competitions, starting with the Four Nations Tournament in various locations worldwide. This appetizer will pave the way for the reintroduction of the Hockey World Cup in 2028, with the World Cup and Olympics alternating every two years.
The NHL’s relationship with the Olympics has been a rollercoaster ride. The league faced challenges in reaching an agreement with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) for the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics. This led to the NHL’s absence from the games for the first time since 1994. The COVID-19 pandemic further disrupted plans, causing the NHL to withdraw from the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.
Despite initial doubts, the NHL’s commitment to international play has prevailed. Commissioner Bettman acknowledged ongoing discussions between the NHL Player’s Association and the IIHF to solidify arrangements for the Olympics. Concerns were raised regarding the construction of the necessary arena for the 2026 Games. However, the league’s players recognize the significance of representing their countries on the global stage, affirming the NHL’s dedication to international competition.
With the NHL’s renewed focus on global play, fans can look forward to witnessing their favorite players competing in prestigious international tournaments for years to come.
