Who is Alex Formenton? Ex-Ottawa Senators winger at the center of Hockey Canada sexual assault trial
Alex Formenton, once a promising NHL player, faces trial for alleged involvement in the 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault case (Getty Images)
Once viewed as one of the Ottawa Senators' most promising young forwards, Alex Formenton has found himself at the center of one of Canadian hockey's most disturbing scandals. Now 25, the former NHL player is currently standing trial for his alleged role in the 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault case, a saga that has shaken the foundations of the sport across the country.
Alex
Formenton
's rise through the ranks and unexpected career halt
Born in King, Ontario, Alex Formenton was drafted 47th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2017. Known for his speed and versatility on the left wing, he earned early praise for his potential and work ethic. He played parts of three seasons with the Senators and was considered a valuable penalty killer and depth scorer, notching 18 goals in the 2021–22 season.
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However, his promising career came to a screeching halt when contract negotiations with Ottawa stalled amid rising speculation about his involvement in the alleged 2018 group sexual assault involving members of Canada's World Junior team.
As a restricted free agent, Formenton was left unsigned and later moved overseas to play for HC Ambrì-Piotta in Switzerland. In 2025, he stepped away from professional hockey entirely and began working in construction in his hometown.
Legal charges tied to 2018 Team Canada incident
The turning point came on January 28, 2024, when Formenton turned himself in to London police. He was officially charged with one count of sexual assault related to an incident that allegedly took place in June 2018, shortly after Team Canada's World Junior Championship victory.
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'Formenton had 'moved on from a hockey career,'' read court documents filed in August 2024. Despite this claim, the implications of his past actions continue to follow him into the courtroom. He has pleaded not guilty, and his trial began in April 2025.
In a twist that further complicates his public image, Formenton is also seeking $20 million in damages from his former agency. He alleges that he was misadvised during contract negotiations, which ultimately left him vulnerable when his hockey career unraveled due to the criminal investigation.
Also Read:
Who is Carter Hart? The Canadian hockey star accused in the Hockey Canada sexual assault scandal
As the trial unfolds, the hockey world watches closely — not just to see the outcome for Formenton, but to reflect on how a national sport failed to protect the values it so often claims to uphold.
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