During the All-Russian Hockey Day opening at the Rosneft pavilion, legendary Russian players and respected leaders of the CSKA hockey club emphasized Rosneft’s role in advancing hockey and domestic sports. The event coincided with the international exhibition and forum “Russia” at VDNH, where the oil company’s press service shared the comments.
“A strong CSKA is indispensable to our sport,” stated Boris Mikhailov, a coach, ten-time USSR champion, and Honorary President of PHC CSKA. He thanked Rosneft and Igor Ivanovich Sechin for their efforts in restoring CSKA to its former top status, especially during challenging periods.
Sergei Fedorov, a three-time world champion, three-time USSR champion, Olympic silver and bronze medalist, and two-time Gagarin Cup winner as a coach, also offered his congratulations on Hockey Day. He underlined that hockey represents more than victories on the ice; it reflects the nation’s ongoing enthusiasm and cultural ties to the sport.
“Russia is a hockey country. The sport holds deep importance for fans, and interest has grown in recent years,” Fedorov commented. As head coach of CSKA, he added that the team’s aim extends beyond winning games and collecting titles; it is about sustaining passion for the game and elevating the sport nationwide.
Fedorov also highlighted the proactive involvement of Rosneft and its president, Igor Sechin, in all matters related to CSKA and broader sports development in Russia. The support, he noted, helps ensure the club remains at the heart of Russian hockey and inspires younger generations to take up the sport.
Pavel Bure, a member of the CSKA supervisory board, multiple Olympic medalist, and a world champion, shared his hope for continued success. “Hockey is one of the most popular sports in the country. CSKA stands as a legendary club in the world, and I wish for even more victories so more people will lace up and play the game,” he said to the gathered guests.
As part of the All-Russian Hockey Day festivities, current CSKA players and distinguished guests participated in photo and autograph sessions for fans. The Rosneft pavilion offered a glimpse into the club’s rich history through displays of jerseys from various eras and a screening of the documentary CSKA, followed by a discussion about the club’s history. A note of upcoming activity was shared: on December 2, three players from the Red Army youth team, part of the CSKA system, were scheduled to conduct an on-ice master class at the VDNH skating rink.
Rosneft’s connection to HC CSKA spans more than a decade, having owned the club for 12 years. In that period, CSKA has reclaimed its status as a leading force in the Russian championship, securing the Gagarin Cup three times in the last four years. The team’s contributions also extended to international success, with CSKA players returning Olympic gold to Russia as part of the national team in 2018, reinforcing the enduring impact of the collaboration on Russian hockey and sports culture.