Modo terminates Sverre Rönningen's contract as HV71's Richard Nylin announces resignation

In early January 2026, two major personnel changes have emerged in Swedish hockey. Modo Hockey confirmed the early termination of defenseman Sverre Rönningen’s contract. The 24-year-old Norwegian, who joined Modo from Storhamar this season, left Sweden in December following his last game on November 28 and has been on indefinite sick leave since. Modo’s sports director, Henrik Gradin, described the contract termination as a mutual decision and wished Rönningen well. Currently, Modo stands third in the HockeyAllsvenskan standings.

Meanwhile, HV71 faces a leadership transition as club director Richard Nylin announced his resignation, effective March 31, 2026, to pursue new opportunities in the business sector. Nylin, who began as commercial manager in 2023 and quickly rose to club director in 2024, reflected on his pride leading the organization through challenging times marked by instability, including multiple changes in sports directors and ongoing issues such as the current sports director’s indefinite sick leave. HV71's chairman, Anna-Lena Isaksson, acknowledged Nylin’s substantial contributions, especially in strengthening ties with supporters and partners. HV71 is currently placed in a relegation spot in the SHL standings. The club has commenced the search for a new director, with Nylin agreeing to stay until his departure date.

These changes underscore a period of adjustment within Swedish hockey clubs as teams strive for stability amid ongoing competitive and managerial pressures.