NHL Stars to Shine at 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics After Landmark Deal

NHL players are set to light up the ice at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, marking their return to the global stage for the first time since 2014. A landmark agreement finalized on July 2, 2025, between the NHL, NHLPA, International Ice Hockey Federation, and the International Olympic Committee has paved the way for this thrilling showcase of talent. This deal not only secures participation for 2026 but also extends to the 2030 Winter Games in the French Alps, promising a decade of elite hockey showdowns.

A Global Stage for Hockey’s Finest
The decision brings the world’s top hockey players back to the Olympics, where they’ll compete in a 12-nation tournament from February 11 to February 22, 2026. Fans can expect fierce matchups among powerhouses like Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland, alongside rising teams like Latvia and Denmark. The recent 4 Nations Face-Off offered a tantalizing preview, with NHL stars delivering high-octane performances. Tensions ran high, particularly between Canada and the U.S., where off-ice political jabs between leaders added extra spice, culminating in a memorable brawl in Montreal and Canada’s overtime triumph in Boston.

Why This Matters
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman called the agreement a win for the sport, emphasizing its role in showcasing players’ skills globally. Marty Walsh of the NHLPA echoed this, noting the Olympics as a platform for unforgettable moments that fuel hockey’s growth. The deal’s finalization dispels doubts caused by prolonged negotiations, ensuring fans will witness best-on-best competition in Italy’s stunning alpine setting.