Calgary Flames icon Jarome Iginla reveals concerning health battle

Nov 3 2026, 9:32 pm

Hockey fans are sending their best wishes to Jarome Iginla after the Calgary Flames legend revealed he’s been dealing with significant health issues.

The Hockey Hall of Famer opened up about his ongoing health struggles in an interview with Sportsnet’s Eric Francis, published Tuesday.

The 49-year-old told Francis he’s been experiencing neurological issues that he believes could potentially be connected to complications from a hip replacement surgery he underwent several years ago.

“Some neurological issues. I’m not entirely sure what it is; it may be from metal toxins from reaction to the cobalt hip,” Iginla told Francis.

According to Francis, Iginla has also been dealing with elevated mercury levels and has spent more than a year undergoing testing and consulting with medical professionals in an effort to get some answers.

The complications have reportedly affected several aspects of his everyday life, including his energy levels, weight, and speech.

jarome iginla hockey hall of fame

Jarome Iginla was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2020. (Calgary Flames)

Despite the difficult stretch, Iginla remains optimistic about his recovery.

He’s continuing to work with medical professionals to better understand what’s happening, telling Francis he’s hopeful he’ll eventually make a full recovery.

Iginla spent 16 seasons in Calgary, becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in goals (525), points (1,095), and games played (1,219).

Iginla also remains one of the most recognizable figures from the Flames’ memorable 2004 Stanley Cup run, when Calgary came within one victory of capturing the championship.

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Gary A. Vasquez/USA TODAY Sports

The two-time Olympic gold medallist was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2020 and has remained connected to Calgary since retiring from professional hockey in 2018.

He currently serves as a special advisor to Flames general manager Craig Conroy, occasionally making appearances around the organization.

For now, Iginla’s focus is on his health, and fans will undoubtedly be hoping for some encouraging news in the months ahead.

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