Detroit Red Wings honor NHL legend Sergei Fedorov by retiring his No. 91

The Detroit Red Wings unveiled plans on Tuesday to officially retire the jersey number 91 of NHL star Sergei Fedorov during a special event in January 2026. This marks the ninth time the team has retired a jersey number. The commemorative pre-game ceremony is set to take place on January 12, 2026, ahead of their match against the Carolina Hurricanes at Little Caesars Arena, according to The Athletic.

Detroit Red Wings Governor and CEO Chris Ilitch informed Fedorov of the decision personally. In an official statement, Ilitch spoke highly of Fedorov, praising his “exceptional skill, relentless drive, and lasting impact”, which played a significant role in helping the team clinch three Stanley Cups. Ilitch went on to say that Fedorov was highly regarded by his parents, Mike and Marian Ilitch, for being one of the most dynamic players of his era and having a significant impact on the organization.

The main event in January next year will welcome Sergei Fedorov and his family members. Upon learning the news, Fedorov communicated his immense gratitude for the honor and thanked the organization for giving him the opportunity to play.

Sergei Fedorov spent 18 seasons in the National Hockey League, 13 of which were with the Red Wings. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015 after being drafted by the Red Wings in the fourth round of the 1989 NHL entry draft. Fedorov, who defected from the Soviet Union in 1990, scored 483 goals and 1,179 points throughout his 1,248 regular-season games. He contributed significantly to the Red Wings’ Stanley Cup victories in 1997, 1998, and 2002 and earned two Selke Trophies as the league’s top defensive forward and the 1994 Hart Trophy as the league MVP. After leaving the Red Wings in 2003, Fedorov played for Anaheim, Columbus, and Washington.

Some facts about Fedorov’s NHL career:

– Fedorov was a part of the NHL club for 13 seasons between 1990 and 2003.
– In addition to Fedorov’s No. 91, the Red Wings have previously retired the jersey numbers of players Sid Abel (No. 12), Alex Delvecchio (No. 10), Gordie Howe (No. 9), Red Kelly (No. 4), Nicklas Lidstrom (No. 5), Ted Lindsay (No. 7), Terry Sawchuk (No. 1), and Steve Yzerman (No. 19).
– Fedorov played for the Detroit Red Wings, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Washington Capitals.