After making it mandatory for its competitions involving junior-aged players, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has decided that the neck protector will be required for all of its competitions.
The organization announced this on Monday. In particular, this means that National League players participating in the Senior World Championship will need to add the kit to their kit.
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This decision was made on the recommendation of a medical committee. The exact date on which this new regulation will come into force has not yet been determined.
This action was taken in connection with the death of Adam Johnson, who was injured in the neck by a skate during a game between the Nottingham Panthers and the Sheffield Steelers in England this fall.
Following the tragic incident involving the former Pittsburgh Penguins player, several minor leagues in Canada and the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) have mandated the wearing of neck protectors.