Who is Alex Formenton? Ex-Ottawa Senators winger at the center of Hockey Canada sexual assault trial
Alex Formenton, once a promising NHL player, faces trial for alleged involvement in the 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault case (Getty Images)
Once viewed as one of the Ottawa Senators' most promising young forwards, Alex Formenton has found himself at the center of one of Canadian hockey's most disturbing scandals. Now 25, the former NHL player is currently standing trial for his alleged role in the 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault case, a saga that has shaken the foundations of the sport across the country.
Alex
Formenton
's rise through the ranks and unexpected career halt
Born in King, Ontario, Alex Formenton was drafted 47th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2017. Known for his speed and versatility on the left wing, he earned early praise for his potential and work ethic. He played parts of three seasons with the Senators and was considered a valuable penalty killer and depth scorer, notching 18 goals in the 2021–22 season.
— AmazingZoltan (@AmazingZoltan)
However, his promising career came to a screeching halt when contract negotiations with Ottawa stalled amid rising speculation about his involvement in the alleged 2018 group sexual assault involving members of Canada's World Junior team.
As a restricted free agent, Formenton was left unsigned and later moved overseas to play for HC Ambrì-Piotta in Switzerland. In 2025, he stepped away from professional hockey entirely and began working in construction in his hometown.
Legal charges tied to 2018 Team Canada incident
The turning point came on January 28, 2024, when Formenton turned himself in to London police. He was officially charged with one count of sexual assault related to an incident that allegedly took place in June 2018, shortly after Team Canada's World Junior Championship victory.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Nuova CUPRA Formentor e-HYBRID
CUPRA
Configura Auto
Undo
'Formenton had 'moved on from a hockey career,'' read court documents filed in August 2024. Despite this claim, the implications of his past actions continue to follow him into the courtroom. He has pleaded not guilty, and his trial began in April 2025.
In a twist that further complicates his public image, Formenton is also seeking $20 million in damages from his former agency. He alleges that he was misadvised during contract negotiations, which ultimately left him vulnerable when his hockey career unraveled due to the criminal investigation.
Also Read:
Who is Carter Hart? The Canadian hockey star accused in the Hockey Canada sexual assault scandal
As the trial unfolds, the hockey world watches closely — not just to see the outcome for Formenton, but to reflect on how a national sport failed to protect the values it so often claims to uphold.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
2 hours ago
- Indian Express
9 arrested, 60 kg of heroin seized from gang led by Pak-based smuggler: Punjab Police
A joint operation conducted by the Punjab Police, Border Security Force (BSF) and Rajasthan Police recovered 60 kg of heroin from a gang in Rajasthan's Barmer with Pakistani and Canadian links, the Punjab police said. Nine people have been arrested in connection with the seizure. Gaurav Yadav, Director General of Police (DGP), Punjab, said on Monday that the gang was led by Pakistan-based smuggler Tanveer Shah and Canada-based Joban Kaler. 'A big network of smugglers and hawala operators has been busted,' the DGP said. In a massive crackdown, #Amritsar Commissionerate Police, with the support of #BSF and #Rajasthan Police, dismantles a major international drug cartel operated by #Pak-based smuggler Tanveer Shah and #Canada based handler Joban Kaler and recovers a huge consignment of 60.302 Kg… — DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) June 30, 2025 Taking to X, Yadav stated that they recovered 'a huge consignment of 60.302 Kg Heroin from near the International Border in Barmer, Rajasthan'. He added that raids are taking place in Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu and Kashmir in connection with this seizure and more cross-linkages will be known soon. As part of its ongoing war on drugs, the Punjab police on Sunday arrested 114 drug smugglers and recovered 4.1 kg of heroin and Rs 9.6 lakh in cash from them. With this, the number of total drug smugglers arrested has reached 19,735 in just four months. The operation was conducted simultaneously in all 28 police districts of the state on the DGP's directions. Divulging details, Arpit Shukla, Special DGP, Law and Order, informed that over 180 police teams, comprising over 1,100 police personnel, conducted the raids under the supervision of 85 gazetted officers at 367 locations across Punjab, leading to the registration of 77 first information reports (FIRs). Police teams also carried out searches on 399 people during the day-long operation, he added. Meanwhile, police teams conducted checking at 332 pharmaceutical shops in six districts, including the Jalandhar Commissionerate, Hoshiarpur, SBS Nagar, Jalandhar Rural, Kapurthala, and Rupnagar to ensure that the outlets are not selling intoxicant tablets or any other habit-forming drugs, and are adhering to the prescribed norms and regulations pertaining to the sale of medicines.
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
How alleged sexual assault changed the life of five young Canadian hockey stars
The alleged sexual assault involving five Canadian hockey players - Michael McLeod , Dillon Dube , Carter Hart , Cal Foote and Alex Formenton - during the 2018 World Junior Championships has cast a long, dark shadow over the lives and careers of rising young hockey stars. McLeod, Dube, Hart, Foote, and Formenton were charged with sexual assault last year in connection with an alleged incident that occurred in June 2018. The incident is said to have taken place in a hotel in London, Ontario, after a Hockey Canada gala event to celebrate their gold medal win at the World Junior Championship earlier that year. ALSO READ: Shocking final claims rock Hockey Canada trial as judge prepares landmark ruling on July 24 by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Unsold 2022 Suv Almost Given Away (See Prices) SUV Deals | Search Ads Search Now Undo Once celebrated as rising stars in Canada's most revered sport, these players saw their reputations and future go upside down amid social media backlash. The incident not only stalled their professional trajectories but also tainted personal identities. ALSO READ: Accused Carter Hart claims woman had sex willingly, did not protest Live Events All five players have pleaded not guilty to the charges as the verdict is set to be delivered on July 24 after the trial had officially concluded earlier this month. None of the players are currently on an NHL roster or hold an active contract with any team in the league. Michael McLeod McLeod, once a standout in junior hockey, rose steadily through the ranks after being named captain of the OHL's Mississauga Steelheads. His most notable career milestone came in 2016 when he was selected 12th overall by the New Jersey Devils. McLeod made his NHL debut during the 2019-20 season and quickly gained recognition for his reliable two-way play. Ryan McLeod played a pivotal role in the Devils' 2023 Stanley Cup playoff run, scoring the decisive goal in Game 7 to eliminate the New York Rangers. It marked a highlight in a career-best season for McLeod, who tallied 26 points over 80 games. Following his strong performance, he signed a one-year contract extension with the Devils in July 2023. But his booming career took a U-turn when he was granted indefinite leave of absence from the Devils on January 24, 2024. Few days later London Police Service charged McLeod on two counts of sexual assault. Following his ouster from the NHL, McLeod continued his professional career overseas, signing with Barys Astana in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Later in the 2024-25 season, he made a move to Avangard Omsk, seeking a fresh start amid ongoing legal proceedings. Dillon Dube After an impressive junior career, Dube entered the NHL spotlight when the Calgary Flames selected him 56th overall in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. He signed a three-year entry-level contract in March 2017 and was assigned to the Flames' AHL affiliate, the Stockton Heat. Dube made his NHL debut in October 2018 against the Vancouver Canucks. One of his standout moments came during the 2020 Stanley Cup Qualifiers, when he scored in Calgary's 4-0 victory over the Winnipeg Jets. In August 2021, he signed a three-year, $6.9 million extension with the Flames. However, Dube's career took a dramatic turn during the 2023-24 season. In January, the Flames announced that Dube would take an indefinite leave of absence to focus on his mental health. Days later, he was formally charged with one count of sexual assault by the London Police Service in connection with an alleged 2018 incident. Following the charges, the Flames issued a statement saying that they were unaware of any pending legal matters at the time Dube requested leave. Post that, Dube signed a one-year contract on July 1, 2024 with Dinamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League. Carter Hart Once considered one of Canada's most promising young goaltenders, Hart now finds his career at a crossroads after being charged in connection with an alleged sexual assault incident dating back to 2018. Hart, who rose to prominence as a standout netminder for Canada Junior team and later the Philadelphia Flyers, saw his professional trajectory abruptly halted as the investigation unfolded. Prior to the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Hart was widely regarded as one of the top goaltending prospects. The Flyers selected Hart 48th overall in the second round, making him the first goaltender taken in that year's draft. He went on to sign an entry-level contract with the Flyers on October 2, marking the beginning of what was expected to be a promising NHL career. Hart made an impressive NHL debut on December 18, 2018, backstopping the Philadelphia Flyers to a 3-2 win over the Detroit Red Wings. His early career showed great promise, and in August 2021, he signed a three-year contract extension with the Flyers, carrying an average annual value of $3.979 million. Hart's performance remained solid, including a standout 29-save shutout against the Arizona Coyotes on November 2, 2021. However, that game would ultimately mark the final professional appearance of his career to date. Hart was later charged with one count of sexual assault in connection with the alleged 2018 Hockey Canada incident, a development that abruptly derailed his career. Following the charge, he did not return to the Flyers for the remainder of the season. As his three-year deal expired, Hart became a restricted free agent, but the Flyers chose not to extend a qualifying offer. As a result, he became an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2024, leaving his NHL future - and reputation - uncertain amid ongoing legal proceedings. Cal Foote Foote, an American-born Canadian defenseman, is currently playing in Slovakia for Liptovský Mikuláš. A native of Colorado, Foote was selected 14th overall in the first round of the 2017 NHL Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the team in 2018. Foote made his NHL debut in the 2021 season opener - a 5-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks - and was part of the Lightning squad that went on to win the Stanley Cup that year. After developing within Tampa Bay's system, he earned a full-time NHL role during the 2022-23 season, appearing in 26 regular-season games and registering one goal and two assists. On February 26, 2023, during his third season with the Lightning, Foote was traded to the Nashville Predators along with five future draft picks in exchange for forward Tanner Jeannot. He later had a brief stint with the New Jersey Devils before moving overseas, due to alleged sexual assault charge, to continue his career in the Slovakian league. Once seen as a promising NHL blueliner, Foote's journey has since taken an unexpected turn, compounded by ongoing legal issues related to the 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault investigation. Alex Formenton Formenton, a dynamic left winger, rose to prominence when he was selected 47th overall by the Ottawa Senators in the second round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. Invited to Ottawa's main training camp that same year, Formenton impressed the organization and was soon signed to a three-year entry-level contract. He made his NHL debut on October 7, 2017, becoming the youngest player to appear in a game for the modern Senators franchise. Formenton earned a regular roster spot in the 2018-19 season and scored his first NHL goal in a game against the Arizona Coyotes. Over three seasons with Ottawa, he established himself as a reliable two-way forward, particularly excelling as a penalty killer. His breakout campaign came in 2021-22, when he posted 18 goals and 32 points across 79 games. However, Formenton's NHL career stalled after the Senators declined to re-sign him following that season. Left unsigned, he became ineligible to play in the 2022-23 NHL season. I In December 2022, he signed with Swiss club HC Ambrì-Piotta, though the team later announced his contract would be reviewed pending the outcome of an investigation into the alleged 2018 Hockey Canada sexual assault incident. He later signed a two-month contract with HC Ambrì-Piotta ahead of the 2023-24 season that ended in December 2023. In January 2024, he was officially charged with one count of sexual assault related to the incident. With his hockey future uncertain, Formenton stepped away from the sport entirely in 2025, and began working in construction in his hometown.
Time of India
9 hours ago
- Time of India
NHL Free Agency: Connor McDavid's next decision could reshape the league's power structure this offseason
Connor McDavid's potential free agency is dominating NHL headlines as July 1 approaches (Getty Images) As July 1 approaches, all eyes in the hockey world are locked on one name—Connor McDavid. The Edmonton Oilers' superstar has the ability to swing the competitive balance of the NHL like no other, and his potential availability in free agency is sending shockwaves through the league. Whether he stays or explores new options, McDavid's decision could become a defining moment in modern NHL history. Why Connor McDavid's free agency status is capturing the league's full attention Connor McDavid is not just a player; he's a franchise-altering force. With unmatched speed, elite playmaking, and a long list of personal accolades, he's widely viewed as the most dynamic talent of his generation. His presence can instantly elevate a team from playoff hopeful to Cup contender. That's why rumors of a potential free agency shake-up are being treated with the weight of a league-wide pivot point. — MSports_all (@MSports_all) Even the possibility of McDavid testing the market has front offices re-evaluating their summer strategy. Cap space is being restructured, trade possibilities rechecked, and long-term plans adjusted—all to be prepared if the Oilers captain becomes available. A changing landscape as teams prepare for July 1 Several contenders are believed to be in 'watch mode,' waiting to see how the situation unfolds. While the Oilers are doing everything possible to keep their cornerstone, the reality of modern NHL economics means no scenario is off the table. If McDavid does move, it won't just be about where he lands—it will be about dominoes that fall afterward. His signing could trigger a chain reaction: trades, rival signings, and possibly even reshaping how top-tier contracts are negotiated in the years ahead. Should McDavid hit free agency, it will be one of the most significant shifts in NHL history. From a fanbase perspective, his decision is emotionally loaded. For front offices, it's a strategic challenge. But for the league, it's an opportunity—and a turning point. Also Read: Who is Alex Formenton? Ex-Ottawa Senators winger at the center of Hockey Canada sexual assault trial As the countdown to July 1 continues, the hockey world holds its breath. Wherever Connor McDavid ends up, the ripple effect promises to redefine the path forward for teams and stars across the NHL. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
