Canada's Veleno given five-game suspension for stomp on Niederreiter
Published
Team Canada forward Joe Veleno was given a five-game suspension by the 2023 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Disciplinary Panel for stomping on the leg of Switzerland's Nino Niederreiter, it was announced Sunday.
The incident occurred at the midway point of the second period during a battle behind the Canadian net where Veleno appears to forcefully step on Niederreiter's foot in order to free the puck.
Niederreiter went after Veleno in the ensuing scuffle where he was assessed a two-minute minor for roughing. Veleno was not penalized on the play.
“We have been informed that the IIHF Disciplinary Committee has imposed a five-game suspension to Joe Veleno for an on-ice incident that occurred during Canada’s game against Switzerland on May 20," Team Canada general manager Doug Armstrong said in a statement. "Canada’s National Men’s Team acknowledges the role of the committee and appreciate the diligence that went into the decision-making process, and we accept and support the IIHF’s decision.”
Veleno will miss Canada's final round robin game, against Norway, and will miss the rest of the tournament, should Canada qualify that far.
“I have been notified of the five-game suspension imposed by the IIHF for my actions in our game against Switzerland," said Veleno in a statement. "I accept the sanction from the IIHF and apologize for my actions.”
The 6-foot-1 centre plays for the Detroit Red Wings in the National Hockey League and registered nine goals and 20 points in 81 games last season.
Drafted 30th overall by the Red Wings in the 2018 draft, Veleno has 18 goals and 36 points in 152 career games.