IIHF president Tardif will not seek re-election in October

Luc Tardif announced Sunday morning he will not seek re-election and will step aside from his role as president of the International Ice Hockey Federation when his current term ends in October.

“With the IIHF in a strong and stable position, I feel it is the right time to pass the puck to a younger leader. After much deliberation, I have made the decision not to seek re-election as IIHF President, as I believe that it is time for a new leader to take the reins and continue to move our sport forward,” Tardif said in a statement. “I am taking the opportunity to announce this today as I want to ensure that our organization and future leaders prepare themselves for the road ahead. And I am committed to ensuring a smooth and effective transition for the benefit of the global ice hockey community.”

The 73-year-old native of Trois-Rivières, Quebec was elected as IIHF President in 2021.

“The IIHF fully respects his decision not to seek re-election and acknowledges the enduring impact of his contributions. Mr. Tardif will remain in office until the conclusion of his mandate in October, overseeing ongoing development initiatives, commercial opportunities and preparations for forthcoming events including among others upcoming World Championships and the 2030 Winter Olympic Games,” the IIHF said in a statement.

The 2026 IIHF World Championship will be held in Zurich and Fribourg, Switzerland from May 15-31.

The 2026 Women’s Ice Hockey World Championships runs later this year from Nov. 6-16 in Herning and Esbjerg, Denmark.