Neck protection will become mandatory in all competitions organized by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) after American Adam Johnson died during a match between Sheffield Steelers and Nottingham Panthers.

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Neck guards will be mandatory during hockey matches

A 29-year-old boy died on October 28 after being wounded in the neck by an opponent’s skates.

On the recommendation of its Medical Commission, the IIHF Council has decided to make it mandatory at all levels of its competitions (including the Winter Olympics and World Championships) the use of neck protection devices specially designed for this purpose.

The IIHF did not specify the effective date of this measure due to delays in the delivery of the necessary equipment. The International Forum is in close contact with its suppliers to ensure they are able to meet the current high demand.

Meanwhile, the IIHF continues to “strongly recommend” that all players participating in the competitions it organizes wear neck protection.

Neck protection is optional in certain professional leagues, including the NHL, which runs North America’s powerhouse championship.

In France, protection will be mandatory during matches and training sessions from January 15 in Ligue Magnus (men) and Division 1 (women), the French Hockey Federation announced on Friday, reports Agerpres.