An appeals panel of Hockey Canada ruled that five players had violated the organization’s code of conduct during a 2018 sexual assault allegation that stemmed from a gala in London, Ontario. The panel upheld the acquittals of all five players in 2025, citing insufficient evidence to support criminal charges, but determined that each had breached the league’s conduct standards.
Suspensions and Return Dates
The four players who remain suspended — Cal Foote, Carter Hart, Dillon Dubé and Michael McLeod — will not be eligible for reinstatement until November 10, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2030 respectively. Their extensions were confirmed after the panel reviewed the original conduct and the subsequent legal outcomes. Alex Formenton, by contrast, was cleared to return immediately following his acquittal.
All five athletes were initially charged in connection with the incident, which allegedly took place at a hotel in London, Ontario, during a Hockey Canada celebration of its 2018 gold‑medal victory. While the criminal courts dismissed the charges due to lack of evidence, the league’s internal investigation found that each player engaged in conduct that contravened its code of conduct.
The National Hockey League reinstated the players to active rosters after the legal proceedings concluded. Carter Hart, now a cornerstone of the Vegas Golden Knights, captured a Stanley Cup championship with the franchise in 2026, underscoring his resurgence after the controversy. Dillon Dubé signed with the St. Louis Blues following a strong AHL season, while Cal Foote’s attempted move to a Swedish club was halted after backlash over his participation.
Michael McLeod and Alex Formenton are currently playing overseas, continuing their professional careers abroad while the Hockey Canada appeals process remains under review. Justice Maria Carroccia, who chaired the appeals panel, emphasized that the panel’s decision was grounded in the organization’s commitment to player accountability and the protection of a safe environment for all participants.