Leksand has been relegated from the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) after losing four consecutive games to HV71 in the relegation playoffs. The team will play in Hockeyallsvenskan next season. Players expressed devastation, with forward Michael Lindqvist apologizing to supporters and saying it felt terrible.
Local player Kalle Östman reportedly said it was a shock to have played his childhood club out of the SHL. Club chairman Andreas Gärdsbäck acknowledged the relegation is a major blow, reportedly stating that losing a third of revenue is a huge hit for any organization. He added that Leksand will return to the SHL in a few years and that the club has existed for 100 years and will continue.
it felt terrible
The club reportedly faces financial challenges, including debts to former players, but Gärdsbäck said contracts will be fulfilled. Former captain Martin Karlsson, who left Leksand after the 2024/25 season, expressed sympathy for the team, noting the difficulty of relegation and suggesting budget cuts may have played a role.
it was a shock to have played his childhood club out of the SHL
losing a third of revenue is a huge hit for any organization
Leksand will return to the SHL in a few years and that the club has existed for 100 years and will continue