The Šťastný brothers proudly pose after a game against the Hartford Whalers in December 1984, where they had scored 13 points. Among the first Europeans to play in the NHL, the Slovak brothers paved the way for many other players, particularly those from communist countries. The Šťastnýs learned French and quickly adopted life in Québec City.

1980 - 1987

From the Eastern Bloc to Québec City: the saga of the Šťastný brothers

In 1980, a hockey tournament was held in Austria, featuring teams from several communist Eastern Bloc countries. At the time, it was forbidden for athletes from these countries to emigrate to the West. Marcel Aubut and Gilles Léger, two executives of the Quebec Nordiques, organized the incredible escape of brothers Peter and Anton Šťastný, two talented hockey players from Czechoslovakia. The following year, the Nordiques also managed to bring a third and older brother, Marián. These pioneering siblings from Eastern Europe were responsible for a major chapter in the international history of Québec City ice hockey, much to the delight of the locals!

The warriors at rest

André Pichette The Šťastný brothers proudly pose after a game against the Hartford Whalers in December 1984, where they had scored 13 points. Among the first Europeans to play in the NHL, the Slovak brothers paved the way for many other players, particularly those from communist countries. The Šťastnýs learned French and quickly adopted life in Québec City.

Chronoscope What memories do you have of the Šťastnýs? (unilingual French for a limited time)

Depicted period: 1984

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