NHLPA Executive Director Marty Walsh Hopeful of NHL’s Olympic Participation in 2026
The National Hockey League (NHL) and its players are engaged in ongoing discussions about the league’s potential participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics. NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) executive director Marty Walsh expressed optimism, stating that they are fine-tuning some points and that players are eager to compete. The NHL has not sent its players to the Olympics since 2014, skipping the 2018 and 2022 Games due to concerns surrounding COVID-19.
Alongside the discussions about the Olympics, the league and union are working towards reviving the World Cup on a regular schedule and planning a smaller international showcase event for 2025. Walsh, who previously served as Boston’s mayor and U.S. President Joe Biden’s first labor secretary, recalled the excitement of best-on-best tournaments and emphasized the importance of such events in the sport’s history.
As the new NHLPA executive director, Walsh has been actively engaging with players since assuming his role. He has been meeting with the players across the league to build relationships and gain a deeper understanding of their concerns and the business side of the sport. The response from the players has been positive, with many appreciating Walsh’s strong vision for the future of the NHLPA.
Replacing Don Fehr as the head of the NHLPA in February, Walsh brings a fresh perspective to the organization as the NHL recovers from the financial challenges caused by the pandemic. The current collective bargaining agreement is set to expire in September 2026, making Walsh’s leadership crucial during this critical period.
Players welcome Walsh’s arrival, recognizing his strong leadership qualities and passion for growing the NHLPA. Tom Wilson, the Washington Capitals forward and a representative on the NHLPA’s executive board, described Walsh as a powerful presence who has a clear vision for the association’s direction. Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Seth Jones spoke highly of Walsh, highlighting his assertive nature and expertise.
To support his efforts, Walsh has enlisted the assistance of former NHL defenseman Ron Hainsey, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the intricacies of the game. Walsh expressed his gratitude for Hainsey’s contributions, emphasizing their strong partnership and shared advocacy for the players’ rights and interests.
One of the key issues in the ongoing discussions between owners and players is the distribution of revenues. NHLPA members have experienced a reduction in their salaries due to escrow payments, ensuring a 50/50 split between players and the league. However, the pandemic-generated debt from the 2019-2020 season significantly impacted the players’ earnings. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman recently announced projected rises in the salary cap for future seasons, reflecting the league’s commitment to growth and financial recovery.
Walsh acknowledges the importance of growing the game and the need to market both players and the sport itself. He believes that players play a crucial role in promoting hockey and hopes to increase their engagement in the business side of the game. Understanding the value of their power and influence, Walsh emphasizes the significance of players as the best ambassadors for the sport’s growth.
In summary, NHLPA Executive Director Marty Walsh is hopeful of the NHL’s participation in the 2026 Olympics. He is actively engaging with players, fostering strong relationships, and gaining a deeper understanding of their perspectives. Walsh’s fresh approach and vision for the NHLPA’s future have been well-received by the players. The discussions between the league and union not only concern Olympic participation but also the revival of the World Cup and the growth of the sport as a whole. Walsh recognizes the players’ power to drive the game’s success and encourages their involvement in the business side of hockey. With Walsh’s leadership, the NHLPA aims to navigate the financial challenges brought on by the pandemic and ensure the continued growth and prosperity of the sport.
