Former NHL player Alex Formenton along with several other members of Canada’s 2018 World Junior hockey team, is facing serious sexual assault allegations stemming from an incident in June 2018 in London, Ontario.
The case was originally investigated and closed in 2019 without charges, but it was reopened in 2022 after new evidence emerged and increased public scrutiny over Hockey Canada’s handling of the situation.
The allegations surfaced when a woman reported to police that she was sexually assaulted by multiple players from the team following a Hockey Canada Foundation gala.
In 2022, it was revealed that Hockey Canada quietly settled a lawsuit related to the allegations, which triggered widespread criticism, government investigations, and the reopening of the police case.
Formenton, who played for the Ottawa Senators, was among several players under investigation, though he never publicly addressed his involvement. He did not sign an NHL contract for the 2022–23 season and instead played in Switzerland’s National League (NL). As legal proceedings intensified, he stepped away from professional hockey altogether.
The case has led to significant consequences for Hockey Canada, including major sponsors withdrawing support, leadership resignations, and a complete restructuring of the organization. The trial is scheduled for 2025, and it remains one of the most high-profile scandals in Canadian hockey history. If convicted, the players involved could face serious legal consequences.
Formenton’s future in hockey remains uncertain as he awaits the trial, and the NHL has maintained a stance of cooperation with law enforcement while distancing itself from the accused players.
The outcome of this case is expected to have lasting implications for player accountability and the culture of junior hockey in Canada.