NHL stars to return to Olympic ice in 2026 after 12-year absence

• League finalizes deal with IOC, IIHF and NHLPA

• Deal includes 2026 and 2030 Winter Games

• Send-off event to replace NHL All-Star Weekend

For the first time in more than a decade, the world's best hockey players will take center stage at the Olympic Games.

The National Hockey League (NHL), NHL Players' Association (NHLPA), International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) have finalized a long-awaited agreement confirming NHL players will participate in the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, ending a 12-year Olympic absence and setting the stage for a renewed era of best-on-best international competition.