NHL Players to Compete in 2026 Milan Winter Olympics

The National Hockey League (NHL) and the NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) have agreed to let their players compete in the 2026 and 2030 Winter Olympic Games, the first being held in Milan. This decision ends a decade-long absence from the games, the last one being in Sochi in 2014. The agreement was reached after two years of negotiations between the NHL, NHLPA, International Ice Hockey Federation, and International Olympic Committee. As part of the agreement, travel and insurance costs for the players will be covered by the IIHF and local organising committees. In addition, the NHL will host a new four-team tournament in February 2024, featuring players from the US, Canada, Finland, and Sweden.