Regrets of a Legend: Fedorov Reflects on His Departure from the Red Wings

Three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Detroit Red Wings, **Sergei Fedorov**, expressed regret over his departure from the team following the 2002/2003 season.

«I want to take a step back. I think that now, just like many years ago, I realize that I made a wrong decision in leaving. It’s not so much about my departure itself, but rather the business aspects involved. I deeply regret this. It’s my biggest and probably my only regret. I should have stayed with the Red Wings for as long as possible.

But as the saying goes, you won’t know what it’s like until you try it. I want the fans to remember: no matter how easy it appeared on the ice, it was still a challenging journey, especially considering the injuries. Therefore, I want them to understand the importance of giving your all in every game, regardless of circumstances. Injury or not, once you put on the uniform and step onto the ice, you do everything you can to score a goal or win the match. That’s what I wanted,” Fedorov stated in a video released by the Detroit press service.

It’s worth noting that on January 13, 2026, prior to the game against the Carolina Hurricanes, the Detroit Red Wings will retire Fedorov’s number 91.