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Olympic hockey in 2026 promises ‘best-on-best' as NHL stars return to represent their nations
NHL stars are set to electrify the 2026 Winter Olympics (Getty Images)
NHL
stars are set for a major 2026 Winter Olympics return, having missed the last two. This comeback entails a unique collaboration with Italy's Serie A soccer league, focusing to globally publicize both sports through joint events in Milan.
Players' long-held desire to represent their nations is finally being realized.
Connor McDavid leads NHL's Olympic dream revival for 2026
Hockey enthusiasts have eagerly awaited this moment, as the absence of their beloved NHL stars from recent Olympic tournaments created a perceptible void. The desire to witness top-tier professionals representing their home nations on the grandest international stage has been immense.
As Gary Bettman stated in 2022, "The National Hockey League respects and admires the desire of NHL players to represent their countries and participate in a 'best on best' tournament."
While past logistical hurdles, particularly those stemming from the global pandemic, relinquished Olympic involvement impractical, a new chapter is now unfurling.
During the NHL All-Star celebrations earlier this year, the league ratified its commitment to the 2026 Games. This announcement deeply reverberated with the players, as Connor McDavid phrased, "I feel like it's important for hockey as we continue to try to grow the game internationally and at home."
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His words underscore the intense impact this decision holds for the sport's worldwide development.
An innovative alliance has also been forged with Lega Serie A. This unique partnership, subtly prefigured by the jersey swap between soccer legends Andrea Pirlo and Marco Materazzi and hockey's Mika Zibanejad, will feature athletes from both disciplines engaging in joint promotional activities.
NHL players finally return to the Winter Olympics after over a decade
The approaching NHL/NHLPA European Player Media Tour in Milan, the host city for the 2026 Olympics, illustrates this synergy.
Andy Mitchell, CEO and MD of Lega Serie A USA, accentuated the goal: "To engage with a global audience in new and exciting ways."
He further stated, "By bringing Lega Serie A legends and NHL stars together, we aim to create a synergy that showcases the best of each league." Keith Wachtel, President of NHL Business, added that this collaboration will generate "unique content that celebrates the intersection of hockey and soccer."
This Olympic return is a direct acknowledgement of the players' ardent wishes.
This confluence of top-tier hockey and elite soccer in the lead-up to the 2026 Winter Olympics promises an unfamiliar exhibit, thrilling fans and significantly expanding the global reach of both beloved sports.
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FAQs
Q1: Why is the NHL's return to the Winter Olympics in 2026 significant?
It marks the league's first Olympic participation since 2014, fulfilling players' long-standing wishes for global representation.
Q2: What motivated the NHL to allow players in the 2026 Winter Olympics?
The league acknowledged player demand and prioritized international growth and competitive integrity.
Q3: Which NHL stars have expressed excitement about Olympic participation?
Connor McDavid and David Pastrnak have openly supported the decision, calling it a dream and a long-overdue opportunity.
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