Gaza and ...: 'Unacceptable and inappropriate' social media posts of Panthers co-owner that led to his suspension by NHL

The National Hockey League (NHL) has announced that Florida Panthers minority owner Doug Cifu has been indefinitely suspended for "inappropriate" comments made during a heated social media exchange with a Toronto Maple Leafs fan, according to AFP. The NHL stated that Cifu's posts on Twitter were deemed "unacceptable and inappropriate." The remarks were part of a contentious online dispute that referenced the war in Gaza and President Donald Trump's claim about making Canada the "51st state" of the US.

"The NHL has concluded that Mr. Cifu's X posts were unacceptable and inappropriate. As a result, Mr. Cifu has been suspended indefinitely from any involvement with the Club and the NHL," the league said in a statement, as reported by AFP. It added that an in-person meeting between Cifu and the NHL Commissioner would be scheduled later.

Cifu issued an apology through US media outlets, expressing regret for his actions. "Two days ago, I posted regrettable and inflammatory comments on social media," AFP quoted Cifu as saying. "My behavior does not reflect the standards of the Florida Panthers organization and the Viola family. I sincerely apologize to all those affected by my comments. I am committed to working with the NHL to amend my actions."

The controversy arose from a heated exchange on X, where Cifu clashed with a user over the Panthers-Maple Leafs playoff series, at one point calling the fan a "51st state anti-semite loser," AFP reported.