Ice hockey-Finnish goalie Rinne and Bergeron headline Hall of Fame's 2026 class

The Hockey Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2026 on Monday, headlined by NHL Vezina Trophy winner Pekka Rinne and elite forwards Patrice Bergeron and Carey Price. Rinne, a standout goaltender for the Nashville Predators, earned his place in the Hall of Fame with a record 369 wins and 60 shutouts over 15 seasons, leading the franchise to its first Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2017. He was a four-time Vezina Trophy finalist, securing the award for best goalie in 2018.

Joining Rinne in the prestigious induction are Canadian legends Patrice Bergeron and Carey Price. Bergeron, a two-way forward, captured two Olympic gold medals with Canada and scored the Stanley Cup-winning goal for the Boston Bruins in 2011. Goaltender Carey Price was instrumental in Canada's Olympic gold medal victory in 2014. Their contributions to international and professional hockey solidify their status as Hall of Fame inductees.

The Class of 2026 also recognizes American hockey figures Keith Tkachuk and Cindy Curley. Tkachuk is among the few American-born players to score over 500 goals in the NHL. Curley is celebrated as a pioneer in U.S. women's hockey. The induction ceremony for these distinguished athletes is scheduled for November 9 in Toronto.

Rinne expressed his gratitude, stating, “The honour represents me and all of the members of the Nashville Predators organization.” His sentiment reflects the team-oriented nature of the sport and acknowledges the collective effort behind his individual success. The induction celebrates not only individual achievements but also the broader impact these players have had on hockey.

“

The honour represents me and all of the members of the Nashville Predators organization.