NIHL National Division announce import limit increase from next season

The Planet Ice NIHL National Division have confirmed a change to their import player limited ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Teams will now be permitted to roster four non-British trained players – an increase from the previous limit of three.

The NIHL National Division say the decision “marks a significant step forward in the league’s continued growth and ambition”, believing that it will “raise the standard of competition across the UK’s premier semi-professional ice hockey league”.

A league spokesperson said: “The Planet Ice NIHL National League is always striving to become bigger and better.

“We believe that increasing the number of import players will not only raise the quality of play on the ice but also enhance the experience for fans, players, and clubs alike.”

The change will come into effect at the start of next season, giving clubs the flexibility to strengthen their squads and attract even more high-calibre talent from around the world.

By allowing an additional non-British trained player per team, the league say they hope for faster-paced games which can sharpen competition and continue the NIHL National Division’s upward trajectory as a “must-watch product” within British hockey.

Read more:

• • Bristol Pitbulls announce capture of two-time Elite League winner
  • Great Britain edge past Romania to maintain unbeaten start at World Championship
  • Analysis: Great Britain scrape to tournament-opening win over Ukraine
  • Sheffield Steelers retain key trio for 2025/26 season