The Champions Hockey League (CHL) remains true to its goal of further developing the ice hockey game and introduces a new rule for the 3-to-3-overtime in the 2025/26 season. The so-called “No Return” rule was developed and decided in close cooperation with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).
What does the new rule say?
The “No Return” rule forbids teams that control the disc in the attack zone in the overtime return to the neutral zone. Violations of this rule lead to a break in the game and a subsequent bully in the own defensive zone of the fallible team.
The aim of the new requirement is to counteract the increasing tendency that teams pull the puck out of the offensive zone under minimal pressure to rebuild-a behavior that has recently noticeably reduced the intensity and tension of the 3-opposite-3 game. This development resulted in more and more games in penalty shootout.
Voices to change the standard
“When the 3-on-3-overtime was introduced, it quickly became a fan favorite-because of the quick winding moments and the many chances. But in recent years a puck-oriented way of playing has prevailed in which teams regularly leave the offensive zone. This has led to less decisive moments. With the ‘No Return’ rule, we want to restore the pace, the impossibility and excitement, for this, for which this Format actually stands, ”explains Chl sports director Fadri Holinger
The IIHF is also behind the control change. Kim Pedersen, sports director of the IIHF and member of the Chl sports committee, adds: “We are happy to support this initiative together with the CHL. The ‘No Return’ rule will provide important findings about how the dynamics of 3-opposite-3-overtime can be improved.
Data analysis confirms regular needs
The CHL analyzed the course of the game in overtime in recent years and found a significant increase in game interruptions outside the offensive zone and a decline in the attempts at firing. The result: fewer and fewer games were decided in overtime. Comparable analyzes from European and North American leagues show a similar picture.
Further rule changes remain
Already in the 2023/24 season, the CHL had introduced three new rules of rule, which will continue to exist in 2025/26. After successfully implementing and reaching the desired goals, these rule adjustments remain in force.
Image: Gintare Karpaviciute – EC Red Bull Salzburg
