Glice attended SportsInnovation 2026 in Düsseldorf after being invited by the NHL to showcase a 150 m² synthetic ice rink as part of the on-site fan experience.
For Glice, the event was a standout moment: it brought together global sports leaders, innovation teams, and decision-makers—and it created a high-profile stage to demonstrate how synthetic ice technology can support modern fan engagement and participation. Visitors experienced our StellarGlide™ surface firsthand, turning the activation into a live proof point rather than a static display.
A 150 m² NHL Fan Experience on Synthetic Ice
At the center of the activation was a 150 m² Glice synthetic ice rink, where attendees could step onto the surface and test it directly.
Throughout the event, the rink created a natural hub for conversations about the future of fan experience, sports activations, and accessible skating formats. Instead of explaining the concept, we were able to let people feel the glide, see how the rink worked in a live environment, and understand why synthetic ice can be a practical tool for flexible installations at events and venues.
StellarGlide™ Performance Backed by Fraunhofer Lab Testing
A major part of showcasing innovation on an NHL stage is performance credibility. In laboratory testing conducted by the Fraunhofer Institute, the Glice surface demonstrated friction levels equivalent to real ice at lower skating speeds.
That validation helped connect what visitors experienced on the rink with measurable performance indicators—reinforcing that synthetic ice innovation can be both experiential and technically grounded.
Why the NHL Invitation Was a Milestone for Glice
Being invited by the National Hockey League (NHL) to participate in SportsInnovation 2026 was significant. The NHL’s presence at the event highlighted how seriously the league is exploring new ways to create engaging, modern hockey experiences—and Glice was proud to contribute to that conversation through a live installation.
Omar Mitchell, VP Innovation & Growth Strategy at the NHL, stated: “This activation showcases how innovative material science companies like Glice can help shape the future of fan engagement… by lowering barriers to play and creating flexible, location-independent installations.”
A Highlight Moment for Innovation, Experience, and Sustainability
SportsInnovation 2026 was more than a showcase—it was an experience that demonstrated how a synthetic ice rink can support modern sports storytelling and fan engagement in real time. The response from visitors, partners, and industry stakeholders confirmed the value of putting innovation into people’s hands (and skates) instead of only describing it.
Viktor Meier, CEO of Glice, said: “We were proud to support the NHL… through modern, experiential formats grounded in performance, technology, and sustainability.”
Looking Ahead
Glice left SportsInnovation 2026 energized by the conversations, the on-rink reactions, and the opportunity to present our innovation on such an important stage. We’re grateful to the NHL for the invitation and for the chance to help shape what the future of hockey experiences can look like—more flexible, more accessible, and designed for modern venues and activations.
Find out how you can promote ice hockey all year long with Glice here.