- Trump and Putin proposed a US-Russia hockey series with NHL and KHL teams
- NHL learned about the plan post-call, citing geopolitical sensitivities
- Russian teams remain banned from IIHF events since Ukraine invasion
- 2028 World Cup participation uncertain for Russian athletes
In a surprising diplomatic move, U.S. and Russian leaders reportedly discussed reviving Cold War-era hockey rivalries during a recent phone call. The Kremlin revealed that Presidents Trump and Putin explored organizing exhibition games between NHL and Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) teams, marking the first high-level sports diplomacy effort since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. This proposal emerges as Russian athletes face bans from International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) events, creating complex logistical and political challenges.
The potential series recalls iconic moments like the 1980 Miracle on Icewhen amateur U.S. players defeated the Soviet Union. Modern hockey diplomacy faces new hurdles, however, with the IIHF maintaining Russia's suspension across 13 tournaments. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman noted the league's Russian talent pool—including stars like Ovechkin and Kucherov—but emphasized alignment with international sanctions. Industry analysts suggest a US-Russia series could generate $200M+ in revenue, though political risks remain.
A regional case study emerges from the 2010 Premiere Challenge, where NHL teams played KHL opponents in Saint Petersburg and Riga. These games drew 35,000 combined attendees, demonstrating cross-league appeal despite differing play styles. Sports economists argue that renewed exhibitions could test hockey's soft power potential, similar to 1972's Canada-USSR Summit Series that eased Cold War tensions.
With the NHL planning a 2028 World Cup, stakeholders await clarity on Russian participation. NHLPA director Marty Walsh advocates for athlete inclusion, noting 28% of NHL players hail from conflict-affected regions. However, IIHF president Luc Tardif confirms no timeline for lifting Russia's ban, complicating international event planning. As geopolitical frost persists, hockey's rink becomes an unexpected arena for 21st-century diplomacy.