Four ice hockey players acquitted of sexual assault remain barred from representing Canada internationally after an independent appeals board ruled they broke Hockey Canada's code of conduct. The board recommended the suspensions of Michael McLeod, Dillon Dube, Cal Foote and Carter Hart. Alex Formenton, also found in breach, is being reinstated immediately. The ruling does not affect NHL eligibility; all five players can sign with NHL teams, which operates separately from Hockey Canada.\n\nReinstatement dates vary: Foote eligible November 10, 2027; Hart November 10, 2028; Dube November 10, 2029; and McLeod November 10, 2030.

The board did not explain the differing timelines. The players were accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a London, Ontario hotel room in 2018. They were found not guilty in July 2025 when Justice Maria Carroccia deemed the complainant's evidence not credible.\n\nThe case sparked national debate on hockey culture.

Canada's Sport Secretary Adam van Koeverden stated: "This case started a national conversation about safe sport and the problematic culture in men's hockey." He noted progress at Hockey Canada to address systemic failures, emphasizing accountability for national sport organizations.