NMHL (Russia) 2025/26

The National Junior Hockey League operates as the second tier of the junior hockey pyramid in Russia. It serves as a developmental bridge for players aged 16 to 20, preparing them for higher levels of the sport. The league is governed by the Ice Hockey Federation of Russia, which took control in 2016 after the competition was reorganized into an independent entity.

Its origins trace back to 2011 as the MHL Championship B. Over time, it evolved from a second division into the standalone National Junior Hockey League. Upcoming changes for the 2026/2027 season include a rebrand to the Russian Hockey League and a reduction in the maximum age limit to 19 years. These adjustments aim to tighten the distinction between youth development and senior professional play.

The competition structure divides clubs into two conferences, West and East. Teams follow a round-robin format during the regular season. The top eight teams from each conference advance to the playoffs. These finals are conducted in a best-of-five series format. The winner receives the Regional Cup, a trophy unique to this level of competition.

Participation involves teams such as Arktika, Belgorod, Bobrov, Bryansk, Buran Moscow, and Dinamo 576. A total of approximately 26 clubs compete across the network. Movement between tiers is not automatic. Admission to the Junior Hockey League depends on financial and infrastructure criteria approved by its Board of Directors.

Historical dominance has varied among participants. Kedr Novy Urengoy won the inaugural title in 2011–12. Subsequent champions include Gornyak Uchaly, Dizelist Penza, and MHC Kristall Saratov. The league’s primary function remains the cultivation of young talent rather than senior professional achievement.