In brief
Hockey Canada’s appeals board has ruled that four ex‑under‑20 national team members must remain suspended after being acquitted of sexual assault. Their conduct violations trigger staggered reinstatement dates, with Michael McLeod returning only in 2030. The decision does not change their NHL eligibility. The case sparked a national debate on safety and culture in Canadian hockey.
Four Canadian hockey stars remain suspended after sexual assault acquittal
An independent appeals board has ruled that four former juniors for Canada’s under‑20 team must stay barred from Hockey Canada‑sanctioned play, despite their acquittal last year.
The players – Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Cal Foote and Carter Hart – were found not guilty of sexual assault in a 2018 incident, but the board said they violated Hockey Canada’s code of conduct. Only Alex Formenton is being reinstated.
The suspension dates vary: Foote returns on 10 Nov 2025, Hart and Dube on 10 Nov 2027 and 2028, and McLeod only on 10 Nov 2030. These rulings do not affect their NHL eligibility.
The case ignited a national debate on safe sport and cultural practices in men’s hockey. Officials said the industry must address systemic failures and hold senior bodies accountable.
