On Tuesday, the Champions Hockey League held its annual Club Information Meeting in Prague to prepare all teams for the upcoming 2026/27 CHL Season.
CHL Director of Operations & Sport Fadri Holinger started the Club Information Meeting by welcoming all to Prague, moving forward with a review of the 2025/26 season, highlighting interesting moments of the past year, such as two teams - Ilves Tampere and KalPa Kuopio - staying unbeaten over the course of the Regular Season, or every team securing a win in the highly competitive first phase of the competition. Holinger then went on to review the "no return" rule and other standing rules, stating widespread positive feedback from officials, club representatives and fans.
"Only together can we drive impact moving forward."Fadri Holinger, CHL Director of Operations & Sport
The CHL Director of Operations & Sport also congratulated Brynäs IF on winning the first-ever edition of the CHL Impact Award and reviewed the very successful culmination of the 2025/26 season - CHL Final 2026.
"The increase in club contribution (a.k.a. prize money) is a direct response to your valuable feedback," said Holinger when discussing the value of feedback gathered from clubs and leagues throughout the season, highlighting the highest-ever Regular Season Team Contribution.
Enrico Brunold and Katie Reynolds from Infront Sports & Media then provided insights into the work of the media and marketing partner of the CHL. In their presentation to clubs and leagues present, they also reviewed the most recent CHL Final and its great reception.
Enrico Brunold showcased interesting figures from the past season, also highlighting some of the challenges of the past and present. He also provided an update on the fulfilment of their previously announced sustainability report. Katie Reynolds presented interesting figures in her digital review, focusing on visibility, broadcasting and audience information. She also noted new broadcasting partners in France and Italy.
Kölner Haie's CEO Philipp Walter presented next. He introduced his background, Kölner Haie as a club, their fans and their identity, noting the progress and development they have undergone since they last featured on the Champions Hockey League stage all the way back in 2014/15 and the excitement in the German city ahead of their big return.
"We are humble and excited to be back after 11 years. We are committed and we want to see all our fans turn out for the Champions Hockey League!"Philipp Walter, CEO Kölner Haie
Merchandise sales were a particularly strong point for the DEL side and insight was presented. The draw of their "speciality" strategy was also shared, with Kölner Haie's experience passed on to all present.
Last to speak was CHL President Jörgen Lindgren, who ran the clubs through current and upcoming strategic goals that the Champions Hockey League has set and will look to tackle.