By: Ebenezer Adugyamfi/ Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada
September 11, 2026
A growing online petition urging the Edmonton Oilers to reverse the signing of forward Alex Formenton has attracted thousands of signatures, intensifying debate over one of the NHL’s most controversial roster decisions of the year.
The petition argues that although Formenton was acquitted in 2025 in the high-profile Hockey Canada sexual assault trial, the Oilers should reconsider bringing him into the organization because of the broader message it sends to survivors of sexual violence and the hockey community.
Why are fans protesting?
The petition’s organizers make it clear that they are not challenging the court’s verdict. Instead, they say professional sports teams should be held to a higher ethical standard when making personnel decisions.
Within days of the signing, supporters of the campaign called on the Oilers’ ownership and management to cancel the contract, arguing that the move risks damaging the club’s reputation and alienating fans.
The campaign has continued to gain momentum online as supporters share the petition across social media platforms.
Why did the Oilers sign Formenton?
The Oilers have defended the decision, saying they conducted an extensive review before offering Formenton a contract.
Team officials said they examined the legal process, consulted people familiar with the case and concluded that the player deserved another opportunity after being found not guilty.
The club also noted that NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman ruled Formenton eligible to return to the league following the conclusion of the criminal proceedings.
The background
Alex Formenton was among several former members of Canada’s 2018 World Junior hockey team charged in connection with an alleged sexual assault in London, Ontario.
In 2025, an Ontario court acquitted Formenton and the other accused players after finding the Crown had not proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The acquittal did not amount to a finding that the alleged events never occurred; it meant the criminal charges were not proven under Canada’s legal standard.
The case nevertheless triggered widespread criticism of Hockey Canada and led to significant reforms in how the organization handles allegations of sexual misconduct.
A divided hockey community
Reaction to the Oilers’ decision has been sharply divided.
Some fans believe Formenton has the right to rebuild his career after being acquitted, arguing that denying him employment would undermine the principle of due process.
Others insist that professional sports organizations must consider public trust and the experiences of survivors alongside legal outcomes, making the signing inappropriate regardless of the verdict.
As the petition continues to gather signatures, the Edmonton Oilers have given no indication that they intend to reverse the signing, leaving the debate over accountability, justice and second chances firmly in the spotlight ahead of the new NHL season
