The NHL is arguably the best known international sports brand in Plus Licens territories, associated with stars like Sweden’s Peter Forsberg, Jaromir Jagr of the Czech Republic, Russia’s Sergei Fedorov and Finland’s Olli Jokinen. During the 2005-06 and 2009-10 regular seasons, the League suspends play to allow players to participate on behalf of their respective countries in the Olympic games - showcasing the world’s best hockey players to a global viewing audience!
National Hockey League games are broadcast in 170 countries around the world. European broadcasting agreements for NHL games include CANAL+ (games aired up to 6 times a week) for the Nordic countries, France and Spain; Galaxie and NOVA for the Czech Republic; Galaxie and Slovak TV for Slovakia; NTV Plus for Belarus and Russia; SPORT 1 and 2 for Hungary and Ukraine; Premiere for Germany and Switzerland; NASN for Ireland and the UK; Channel 5 for the UK; Premiere for Austria; and BETV for Belgium.
Licensing partners include B&M Design for bags and backpacks, BrandXtend for dis-posable cameras, Electronic Arts for electronic games, Liberté for apparel, Office Premier for stationery, Stiga Games for tabletop rod hockey, Reebok for official jerseys, Topgal for bags and Upper Deck for trading cards.
NHL hockey is an incredible combination of speed, power, skill and complex strategy. The seamless teamwork, precision passing and intense shooting attract passionate and enthusiastic fans around the world.