International Ice Hockey Federation Implements Mandatory Neck Guards After Tragic Loss of Adam Johnson

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has declared that neck guards will now be required at all levels of play, including the Winter Olympics and World Championships, in response to the tragic death of Adam Johnson. Johnson passed away after suffering a neck injury during a collision with another player in a game between the Nottingham Panthers and the Sheffield Steelers in England on October 28.

In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on October 30, 2023, Pittsburgh Penguins and Anaheim Ducks players pay their respects to former Penguins player Adam Johnson with a moment of silence before their game at PPG PAINTS Arena. (Photo by Harrison Barden/Getty Images)

Harrison Barden/Getty Images

Ice hockey players have been stubborn about wearing neck protection. That might be about to change

The 29-year-old suffered a neck injury from another player's skate, as determined by a Sheffield coroner's report. The IIHF announced on Monday that, based on the recommendation of its Medical Committee, it has made the decision.

Neck laceration protectors are now required for senior categories as well as U20 and U18 categories, in accordance with the IIHF Official Rule Book. The implementation date for the senior categories will depend on the supply situation, and the IIHF is working closely with suppliers to meet the high demand.

The IIHF strongly recommends that all players competing in IIHF competitions wear neck guards until an official mandate is determined. This follows similar decisions made by the English Ice Hockey Association and the Canadian Hockey League.

The Pittsburgh Penguins, Johnsons former NHL team, now require minor league players to wear neck guards, despite them being uncommon in the NHL.