Release from 07.03.2026

League held General Meeting in Villach

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On Saturday, club representatives and the presidium of the win2day ICE Hockey League met for a General Meeting in Villach.

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Based on the existing agreements with the Austrian Ice Hockey Federation, the framework for the 2026/27 season has already been defined. The new season will start on Friday, September 18. Depending on the performance of the four national teams participating in the league at the upcoming IIHF World Championship, the season may extend until the end of April.

During the meeting in Villach, central topics concerning the further development of the league and of ice hockey in the participating markets were discussed in a constructive atmosphere. The following key points emerged in particular:

  • Possible league expansion in Italy, particularly through the application of a new organization from Milan
  • Adjustment of roster regulations to economic and sporting conditions
  • Strengthened focus on youth development

The presentation of the Milan project was referred to the formal admission procedure, with a decision to be made by the General Assembly in June at the latest.

All 13 clubs agreed on a common approach for the future of the league, especially concerning roster regulations and youth development. This will require adjustments to economic, sporting, and legal frameworks – in particular regarding European regulations.

There was also consensus that close cooperation with the federations and national teams is essential for the growth of ice hockey. Strong national players are considered a key factor for both the identity of the clubs and the competitiveness of the national teams.