Senators part ways with Alex Formenton after acquittal in 2018 assault case
The Ottawa Senators cut ties with forward Alex Formenton on 17 September 2023. The decision came months after his acquittal in a high-profile sexual assault trial linked to Canada's 2018 world junior team. Team officials and fans have since shared mixed reactions to the move. Formenton had faced charges stemming from an incident in London, Ontario, in June 2018. After a trial, he and four other players were found not guilty. Despite the verdict, the Senators chose not to re-sign him, with general manager Steve Staios stating that both sides agreed a fresh start would be best.
Two of the five accused players have since signed new NHL contracts. Meanwhile, Formenton joined HC Ambri-Piotta in Switzerland, where his deal runs until December 2023, with an option to extend through the 2025-26 season.
Reactions among fans varied. Wadane Sougoufara, a long-time supporter, admitted initial disappointment at losing a talented player but ultimately backed the decision. Jules Wong, another fan, argued that re-signing Formenton would have sent the wrong message, given the seriousness of the allegations. Joan Wiggins, a 20-year season ticket holder, felt the team should have respected the court's ruling more directly. William Hermanutz suggested the Senators avoided re-signing Formenton to steer clear of further media scrutiny.
Bailey Reid, a senior adviser on gender and sexual violence prevention, criticised the outcome. She had hoped for stronger condemnation from the organisation, stressing the importance of accountability in professional sports. Formenton is now playing in Switzerland, while the Senators have moved on without him. The decision reflects broader debates about player conduct, legal outcomes, and the responsibilities of sports teams. Fans and experts continue to discuss how such cases should influence roster choices in professional hockey.
