James Nichols
The IIHF Disciplinary Panel handed New Jersey Devils and Switzerland forward Timo Meier a one-game suspension following a controversial play during their matchup against Sweden at the 2026 Ice Hockey World Championship. The decision, announced on May 29, comes after Meier was involved in a knee-on-knee collision that officials deemed dangerous and avoidable.
The incident unfolded late in the second period of Game 59 on May 28. With Sweden’s Oskar Sundqvist carrying the puck into the neutral zone, Meier lined up what looked like a standard body check.
As the opponent veered right to dodge contact, Meier shifted his position and extended his knee, resulting in direct leg-on-leg contact. Video review clearly showed the adjustment, leaving little doubt about the nature of the hit. Under IIHF Rule 50, which covers kneeing, the panel ruled that Meier’s actions endangered his opponent’s safety. While they noted no clear intent to injure, the deliberate extension of the knee crossed the line.
This wasn’t a case of an unavoidable last-second move by the other player—it was a choice that created unnecessary risk.
Meier will sit out Switzerland’s game against Norway on May 30 as a result.
For a Swiss squad playing on home ice in front of their fans, losing a veteran NHL forward like Meier is a blow. The 28-year-old Devils winger brings size, physicality, and scoring punch to the lineup, qualities Switzerland will miss as they push through the later stages of the tournament.
Meier is tied for the fourth-most points in the tournament with 11 (three goals, eight assists) in eight games and is Switzerland’s second-leading scorer.
Meier’s absence forces Switzerland to adjust their forward lines and defensive schemes quickly if they hope to keep their medal hopes alive.
The team will look to other contributors, including captain Nico Hischier, to step up in what promises to be a gritty contest against Norway.
