The owner of the Edmonton Oilers has officially approved a $7.6 million project to build a new statue of Wayne Gretzky outside Rogers Place. The announcement comes as part of a broader effort to celebrate the legacy of “The Great One” and his iconic years with the Oilers.

A Monument to a Legend

Wayne Gretzky, who played for the Oilers from 1979 to 1988, is widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time. During his time in Edmonton, he led the team to four Stanley Cup championships and shattered dozens of NHL records that still stand today.

Now, decades after he last wore the blue and orange jersey, the city and the franchise are coming together to honor his impact in a way that will last for generations.

“Wayne Gretzky is not just a hockey legend — he’s an essential part of Edmonton’s identity,” said Oilers owner Daryl Katz in a statement. “This statue is about more than sports. It’s a symbol of excellence, leadership, and pride for our city.”

A New Landmark at Rogers Place

The statue will be constructed just outside the main entrance of Rogers Place, where thousands of fans gather before every home game. Designed by renowned Canadian sculptor Nathan Scott, the statue will stand over 20 feet tall and depict Gretzky in his prime — hoisting the Stanley Cup, stick raised high, with his iconic number 99 jersey flowing in motion.

Construction is set to begin later this year and is expected to be completed by fall 2026.

Fans React

News of the statue has already sent waves of excitement through Edmonton and across the hockey world.

“This is long overdue,” said one fan outside Rogers Place. “Gretzky didn’t just change the Oilers — he changed the entire game.”

Another fan posted on social media: “There’s no player more deserving. This will be a must-visit for every hockey fan.”

Gretzky Responds

Wayne Gretzky himself responded to the news with humility and gratitude.

“I’m incredibly honored by this,” he said in a brief interview. “Edmonton has always held a special place in my heart. I shared some of the best years of my life here — on and off the ice. I’ll always be proud to be part of this city’s story.”

Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future

As the Oilers continue to build a team for the future, the statue serves as a reminder of where it all began — with a skinny kid from Brantford, Ontario, who took Edmonton by storm and forever changed the NHL.

Once completed, the Wayne Gretzky statue is expected to become a new centerpiece for fans, a photo destination, and a powerful symbol of one man’s impact on a franchise, a city, and a sport.

Wayne Gretzky didn’t just play the game — he defined it. And now, his legacy will stand tall at the heart of the city he helped build into a hockey powerhouse.