For the first time in Olympic hockey history, players will wear mandatory neck protection

At the start of 2026, we will see the Olympic Games in Italy — and they will feature a significant new safety measure in ice hockey.

Details: The Athletic reports that the International Ice Hockey Federation has mandated that players wear specialised neck guards. These protective collars will be compulsory for all participants.

We also reported that the NHL has approved a new rule requiring neck protection as part of player equipment. However, there is one caveat: the mandate applies only to league newcomers. Veteran players with prior NHL experience will be allowed to opt out of wearing neck guards.

Reminder: A 19-year-old Canadian of South African descent recently made his debut in the National Hockey League.