German league criticizes NHL for scheduling games without consultation
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 2:06 PM
Last updated Sep 14, 2026
The NHL is set to hold its first regular-season games in Germany in 15 years, with matches scheduled in Duesseldorf on December 18 and 20. German Ice Hockey League managing director Gernot Tripcke expressed frustration over the NHL's lack of communication regarding the schedule, which conflicts with local teams. The NHL plans additional games in Munich and Cologne next year but has not consulted Tripcke about them. Tripcke emphasized the need for collaboration between the NHL and German hockey organizations to benefit both sides.
- •NHL games in Germany are first since 2011.
- •Games in Duesseldorf conflict with local team schedules.
- •Tripcke calls for better cooperation with the NHL.
- •NHL aims to grow the game in Germany.
- •More games planned for Munich and Cologne next year.
- 2:58 PMESPN NHL — German Hockey: No NHL consultation on upcoming games
- 1:29 PMYahoo Sports — Germany's hockey league is upset at the NHL's plan to play games there
"The NHL is hosting its first regular-season games in Germany in 15 years, but the German league isn't happy. German Ice Hockey League managing director Gernot Tripcke has voiced frustration, saying the NHL scheduled its games without discussing the dates with his league and its teams, and arguing they should work together to promote the sport.
"The NHL's plans to play its first regular-season games in Germany is not welcome news for the German Ice Hockey League, which says the planned games conflict with the schedules of 28 professional clubs there.
Sources
External links- ESPN NHLSep 14, 2026, 2:58 PMGerman Hockey: No NHL consultation on upcoming games
The NHL's plans to play its first regular-season games in Germany is not welcome news for the German Ice Hockey League, which says the planned games conflict with the schedules of 28 professional clubs there.
- Yahoo SportsSep 14, 2026, 1:29 PMGermany's hockey league is upset at the NHL's plan to play games there
The NHL is hosting its first regular-season games in Germany in 15 years, but the German league isn't happy. German Ice Hockey League managing director Gernot Tripcke has voiced frustration, saying the NHL scheduled its games without discussing the dates with his league and its teams, and arguing they should work together to promote the sport.
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