The Deutscher Eishockey-Bund (DEB), the German Ice Hockey League (DEL) and the DEL2 have jointly decided to end the current ice hockey season with immediate effect due to the current developments in the spread of the coronavirus. Today the clubs in the North and South Oberligas also gave their approval. The decision comes against the background of the explicit political recommendations for holding major events and also aims to prevent or alleviate economic damage to the clubs. This also affects everyone under the umbrella of DEB organized leagues such as women's, DNL and young talent leagues. The placements from the main rounds with the respective winners will be taken over. All further sporting decisions in the affected leagues, such as promotion and relegation, will be suspended.
Franz Reindl, DEB-President: "We as the German ice hockey family and all ice hockey fans were looking forward to exciting play-off series, full halls and an exciting sporting competition in the final phase of the season in all leagues. By completely stopping ice hockey operations, we are implementing our overall social obligation for the good of the general public and are fully following the decisions of the political decision-makers. As part of Sportdeutschland, we want to make our important contribution to protecting spectators, players and all those involved in sporting events as well as their families. As difficult as it is for us. The health of everyone involved and not least that of our many supporters throughout Germany is our absolute priority."
Stefan Schaidnagel, DEB-Sports Director: “Our drastic decision is extremely tough on a sporting, economic and social level, especially for our clubs, associations and active members. The sporting consequences in all affected leagues and age groups are enormous and require enormous understanding and acceptance. The consequences for the national teams cannot yet be predicted. We, as the association responsible for ice hockey in Germany, very much regret the current situation. At the same time, I would like to thank all institutions, the DOSB, the states and municipalities, but also the league representatives and athletes for the intensive and high-quality discussions.”