SKA head coach Roman Rotenberg addressed rumors surrounding his team’s latest match, insisting that the game did not set a world attendance record. His response was unequivocal, labeling the circulating claims as unfounded speculation and urging fans and analysts to rely on verified data rather than social media chatter.
Observers noted that an internet rumor mill had highlighted a game between the teams referred to as the Chicago and Calgary fixture, played on January 4, 2009, which allegedly drew 22,146 spectators. The report even claimed that counting included unconventional metrics such as standing room and pets in attendance. Rotenberg dismissed these anecdotes, underscoring that such tallies are not in line with official reporting practices and that credible sources would reflect accurate figures.
In the face of criticism, Rotenberg emphasized that jealousy accompanies success. He described the situation as a negative, non-constructive response from some quarters, including commentators with Russian roots and American bloggers alike. He attributed the spread of misinformation to local media representatives who chose to bolster sensationalism rather than pursue truth, challenging anyone to question the integrity of the league’s attendance records with verifiable data instead of rumors.
On February 11, during a regular Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) match between SKA and Sochi, a new standard for attendance at indoor hockey arenas was achieved, with 21,481 spectators in attendance. This milestone added another chapter to the ongoing discussion about how the league measures audience engagement across its venues and how such records are documented and reported publicly.
The newer venue in St. Petersburg, with a seating capacity around 21,500, highlighted the capacity of modern indoor arenas to host large crowds. Previously, the attendance record for indoor hockey venues was held by the Bell Centre in Montreal, home to the Montreal Canadiens, which accommodates a similar capacity range. This comparison illustrates how different arenas compete for top attendance figures and how these numbers are interpreted within the sport’s broader context.
As the season progresses, SKA continues to secure its place in the Gagarin Cup playoffs. The team remains a prominent participant as the league advances toward the postseason, with fans following the journey and the evolving attendance narratives that accompany each game.
Meanwhile, the season has already featured notable moments in the Western Conference, reinforcing the narrative that playoff participation is a key benchmark for teams and their supporters. The discussion around attendance persists alongside on-ice performance, reflecting the interconnected nature of fan engagement, venue capacity, and league statistics in professional hockey today.