The absence of C need not mean a missing designation
The IIHF 2026/27 change summary permits either a captain with up to two alternates or no captain with up to three alternates. A team using the second arrangement is not required to turn one visible A into a C simply to match the first pattern.
A viewer sees three different players wearing A across the game and never sees a C. Under the current option, that can be an intentional designation structure rather than an equipment mistake.
Count the team’s designations across the record
One camera shot rarely includes every designated player. A close-up of two A badges cannot establish that the full team has only two alternates, while the bench view may omit a designated player currently on the ice. Use the team record when the arrangement matters.
The article concerns what the letters can represent, not an assumption that every player wearing A has unlimited authority over officials. Those interactions have their own rules. It also avoids reading a newly permitted 2026/27 arrangement backwards into an older match. The season and designation pattern together explain the visible badges.
Questions answered
Does IIHF 2026/27 require every team to name a captain?
The stated option permits no captain with up to three alternates.
Can one close-up establish the entire designation pattern?
No.
Sources & further reading
Official references for the subjects discussed. Service terms and device software can change.