Mandatory Neck Guards for Ice Hockey at 2026 Milano Cortina Games

Post by : Mara Rahim

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has officially mandated that neck guards must be worn by all players participating in the ice hockey events at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. The Olympics are set to occur from February 5 to 22, with this regulation aimed at minimizing the risk of severe injuries.

This significant decision comes in the wake of the unfortunate death of Adam Johnson, a forward for the Nottingham Panthers, who tragically passed away in October 2023 due to a skate blade injury during a competitive match. His death resonated throughout the ice hockey fraternity and sparked demands for enhanced safety measures to avert future tragedies.

While the IIHF could not confirm the announcement immediately when approached by Reuters, it had already established a requirement for neck guards in all its competitions as of December 2023. Prior to this, these protective devices were obligatory for under-18 and under-20 tournaments. However, a specific timeline to enforce this rule within senior competitions was not outlined due to issues related to equipment availability.

This new Olympic guideline is part of the IIHF’s ongoing commitment to enhance player safety across all tiers of the sport. Neck guards serve to lessen the likelihood of serious cuts and other injuries inflicted by skate blades, sticks, and pucks. These lightweight protective additions fit snugly around the neck, safeguarding vulnerable areas without hindering player flexibility, thus making them suitable for professional athletes.

In addition to the IIHF's requirement, the National Hockey League (NHL) plans to enforce neck guards for new players starting in the 2026-27 season. Current NHL players will not be compelled to wear them, according to reports from the Canadian outlet Daily Faceoff. This gradual introduction aims to provide players and teams ample time to adapt to the updated equipment requirements.

The 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics will mark the first major international competition at the senior level where neck guards will be obligatory. Ice hockey matches will showcase both men's and women's teams from leading nations, and this rule aims to bolster safety while preserving the games' high pace and intensity. The IIHF has reiterated its priority on player safety, particularly following notable incidents underscoring the threats inherent in the sport.

The decision has garnered positive feedback from various stakeholders within the ice hockey community. Coaches, players, and healthcare professionals have long championed stricter safety protocols, especially for high-velocity competitions where skate blades pose lethal risks. The introduction of mandatory neck protection at the Olympics aims to set a worldwide precedent, motivating national leagues and youth initiatives to follow suit with similar safety standards.

The IIHF’s enforcement of neck guards at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics signifies a noteworthy advancement in ice hockey safety, honoring Adam Johnson's legacy while equipping players with vital protection. This regulation ensures that competitors can perform at the elite level with a diminished probability of severe injuries, thereby safeguarding the sport for all participants.