NHL Confirms Player Return to 2026, 2030 Olympic Games

The National Hockey League (NHL) has officially confirmed that its players will participate in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, marking their return to the Games for the first time since 2014. This landmark agreement, signed by the NHL, NHL Players’ Association, International Ice Hockey Federation, and International Olympic Committee, also covers the 2030 Winter Games and establishes a recurring cycle for international hockey events including World Cups in 2028 and 2032. The NHL’s return to Olympic competition follows successful international events like the 4 Nations Face-Off and reflects a shared commitment to showcasing the best hockey talent globally. The 2026 Olympic hockey tournament will feature 12 teams, including the United States, Canada, and defending champions Finland, with many NHL stars already named to preliminary rosters. This development is expected to boost international interest and viewership, with NBC Sports set to broadcast the event in the U.S. Additionally, the NHL will hold an international event at UBS Arena to kick off the Olympic break in lieu of an all-star game. Separately, the Washington Capitals will face the Philadelphia Flyers in a preseason NHL game at Pennsylvania’s Giant Center in September, marking the venue’s first NHL game in 19 years and featuring star Alex Ovechkin’s return to the site.