Vladislav Tretiak opened a new ice rink in Grozny

Vladislav Tretiak, the President of the Russian Ice Hockey Federation (RIHF), participated in the grand opening of the Akhmat Ice Arena as a part of his business trip to Grozny, the capital of the Chechen Republic.

He took part in the event together with Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chechen leader, with the pair discussing issues concerning hockey development in the region.

Tretiak also held a number of working meetings with senior republican officials during his visit. The legendary goalkeeper provided recommendations on creating a comprehensive ice hockey development system, coaching young players, organising competitions and improving infrastructure. Tretiak visited the new arena together with the head of the Chechen Ice Hockey Federation, Magomed Mintsaev.

Akhmat-Granit, the first Chechen club to participate in a competition ran by the RIHF, will indeed compete in the upcoming 2026/2027 Russian Hockey League campaign.

The team took to the ice in a friendly match against a side representing the Student Hockey League on Tuesday, with Tretiak holding the symbolic face-off draw and talking to the players. Tretiak did then hand out awards to the participants of a recent amateur tournament which involved teams from across various Russian regions.



RIHF President Vladislav Tretiak:

"Hockey is our national game which unites everyone across our great nation! Its popularity is constantly growing, even in regions where other sports have traditionally been strong. I'm glad that special efforts are being made in the Chechen Republic where a full player development system is being created, teams are being formed to participate in national championships and excellent infrastructure is being developed. I personally thanked Ramzan Kadyrov for his desire to develop ice hockey and for the fact that such a wonderful facility has been constructed here in Grozny.

"The new arena is magnificent and is of high quality. Thanks to this stadium, people in Chechnya can now engage in hockey activities using top facilities. Furthermore, it's worth pointing out that Chechens are always full of character, desire to win and determination. Grozny really does possess huge hockey potential!

"I would like to specifically highlight the professionalism and determination of Magomed Mintsaev and his management team. There is enthusiasm, a competent approach to the matter and attention to all important aspects of the hockey process. It’s always a pleasure to support such proactive and focused people. While talking, we outlined the areas of future cooperation as well as specific plans and tasks. The RIHF will support the work of our colleagues and help build an effective coaching system. I am convinced that new talents will emerge and flourish in Grozny, ready to represent the republic with dignity in national competitions."