An independent appeal board has determined that five members of Canada’s 2018 world junior team, who were cleared of sexual assault charges last year, violated the Hockey Canada code of conduct. Hockey Canada announced on Wednesday that it has accepted the board’s recommendations regarding the ongoing suspensions and reinstatement dates for Alex Formenton, Cal Foote, Carter Hart, Dillon Dube, and Michael McLeod.
The players were acquitted in July 2025 of sexual assault allegations related to an incident involving a woman referred to as “E.M.” during a 2018 Hockey Canada event in London, Ont., celebrating the national junior team’s world championship victory. However, a panel comprising John Laskin, Katherine Swinton, and Thomas McEwen advised that four of the players should remain suspended from Hockey Canada-sanctioned programs.
The reinstatement dates differ for each player, with McLeod’s eligibility set for November 10, 2030, Foote on November 10, Hart in 2027, and Dube in 2028. Formenton, on the other hand, is immediately eligible for reinstatement. Other members of the 2018 team are also now eligible to participate in Hockey Canada-sanctioned activities.
The affected players, who had NHL careers prior to the legal proceedings, have been able to sign with NHL teams since October 15 and participate in games since December 1. Hart joined the Vegas Golden Knights and contributed to their advancement to this year’s Stanley Cup final. Dube signed with St. Louis, while McLeod played for Omsk Avangard in the Kontinental Hockey League. Foote competed for the Chicago Wolves in the American Hockey League and had a contract with Farjestad BK terminated amid criticism. Formenton has played in Switzerland for the past three seasons.
Following a settlement between Hockey Canada and the woman in 2022, an audit was conducted to ensure public funds were not used, resulting in a freeze of federal funding to the organization. Hockey Canada executives faced scrutiny from MPs on Parliament Hill regarding their handling of the matter.
Adam van Koeverden, Canada’s current secretary of sport, acknowledged the appeal board’s findings and emphasized the importance of accountability and fostering a culture of change in men’s hockey. He highlighted the progress made by Hockey Canada in addressing systemic issues and ensuring a safe sport environment. The government remains vigilant in monitoring national sport organizations to promote safety, respect, and integrity in sports.