When the call came from Detroit Red Wings CEO and Governor Chris Ilitch that his number 91 would be going up into the Little Caesars Arena rafters alongside the greats of the franchise, Sergei Fedorov admits he was overcome by emotion in that moment.

“It took my breath away,” Fedorov told website rg.org. “Memories rushed back – our struggles, our bumps along the road, and of course that unforgettable parade of emotions after winning our first Stanley Cup.”

Fedorov’s number will be officially retired in a pre-game ceremony on January 12 before Detroit’s game against the Carolina Hurricanes. He’ll be the ninth former Red Wings player to have his number retired.

Sergei Fedorov twice won the NHL’s Fastest Skater, and also won the Hardest Shot Competition. He was a two-time Selke winner, and a league MVP.

Truly a player who could do it all 🌟 pic.twitter.com/XCm6gwlPcw

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) August 20, 2025

“It’s a huge wave of emotions, memories, and feelings,” Fedorov said. “We all love this game.”

Fedorov departed from Detroit in 2003, signing with the Anaheim Ducks as an unrestricted free agent. Even though he wound up playing the remaining five of his 18 NHL seasons with other clubs, Fedorov insists he always held the Red Wings organization close to his heart.

“I was always a Red Wing, even when I played for other teams,” Fedorov said. “But we all understand that hockey in North America is also a big business.”

Fedorov Would Listen To Any Offers From Red Wings

Fedorov remains part of the front office with CSKA Moscow, the team he coached to successive KHL Gagarin Cup titles. While he’s said in the past that his old Russian club would be the only one he’d ever consider coaching again, if the Red Wings were to call about a position in the club’s hockey operations, he’d be open to the concept.

Sergei Fedorov’s sweater will forever be in Detroit’s rafters 🙌 pic.twitter.com/9SmHoXCfoT

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) August 19, 2025

“If Detroit’s management wants me involved professionally, I’d be happy to do it,” Fedorov said. “I’d gladly share my experience, mentor young players, and help raise the next generation of Red Wings champions.”