Shipachov conquers Ufa: a KHL record-breaker strengthens “Salavat Yulaev”
The Ufa-based “Salavat Yulaev” has officially announced its agreement with 39-year-old center forward Vadim Shipachov. The contract is valid until the summer of 2027. The total value of the contract, including all bonuses, is 35 million rubles.

This transfer of a veteran player to Bashkortostan is a significant event for the entire league. In the previous season, Shipachov played for the Minsk “Dinamo” team. There, he made his mark in the history of domestic hockey, becoming the first player to reach 1,000 points in the KHL. He also holds absolute records in terms of games played, assists, and total points scored. Despite his age, Shipachov still maintains his elite skills, including his ability to control the pace of the game.

For “Salavat Yulaev,” signing Shipachov is a strategic move to gain experience and leadership skills from a talented player. The Ufa club, which traditionally focuses on attacking hockey, now has a player who can immediately strengthen the team’s first line and stabilize the game. The long-term contract shows that the management believes that this veteran player will not only help the team in current competitions, but also serve as a mentor for the young players.

Shipachov will have plenty of time to prepare for the season in his new team. The hockey community will be curious to see how one of the best playmakers in KHL history adapts to the tactics of “Salavat Yulaev”. It remains to be seen whether he can prove that age is just a number, and that his skills remain unchanged.