Russian hockey players will cease to be legionnaires in the KHL

The Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) has changed the rules for the status of players with a Russian passport. Starting from the 2025/26 season, such hockey players will no longer be counted in the foreign players' limit, even if they are not eligible to play for the Russian national teams. This was announced on September 2 by the KHL press service.

"Starting from the 2025/26 season, hockey players with Russian citizenship will no longer be considered legionnaires in the KHL, regardless of whether they have the right to play for the Russian national hockey teams," the league's press service said.

Currently, clubs can apply for a match of no more than five foreign players, while athletes from the EAEU countries are not included in this quota. The new policy, as emphasized in the KHL, is aimed at supporting Russian players and developing the league.

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Earlier that day, it was reported that the Ak Bars hockey club had signed a contract with striker Grigory Denisenko. It was noted that the fans were waiting for his return to the KHL. The club clarified that the agreement with the 25-year-old striker is designed for one season.

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