USA Hockey Legends Relive the “Miracle on Ice” in Emotional Lake Placid Reunion

Mike Eruzione, Jim Craig and Mark Johnson return to Herb Brooks Arena during the “Run Back the Miracle” reunion in Lake Placid.

‘Run Back the Miracle’ Brings History to Life at Herb Brooks Arena

Nearly 46 years after one of the greatest upsets in sports history, members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team returned to Lake Placid to relive the moment that changed American sports forever.

With the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina approaching, team captain Mike Eruzione, goaltender Jim Craig, leading scorer Mark Johnson and legendary broadcaster Al Michaels reunited at Herb Brooks Arena for a special event called “Run Back the Miracle.”

Recreating a Defining Moment in Sports History

Powered by Michelob Ultra, the immersive experience used cutting-edge technology including high-definition holograms, full-surface ice projections and original footage to recreate pivotal moments from the historic 4–3 victory over the Soviet Union on Feb. 22, 1980.

Fans in attendance were able to step back in time and experience the emotion, tension and triumph that defined the “Miracle on Ice.”

Players Reflect on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Achievement

For Jim Craig, the reunion offered something the team never truly had after the Olympics ended a chance to reflect.

“When the Olympics were over, within days we were already playing professional hockey,” Craig said. “We never had time to relive what happened. This brings back memories not just for us, but for generations who weren’t alive in 1980.”

Mark Johnson echoed that sentiment, noting how quickly the team’s lives changed after their improbable gold-medal run.

Al Michaels Returns to the Scene of His Iconic Call

For broadcaster Al Michaels, whose famous “Do you believe in miracles?” call remains etched in sports history, the event marked just his third return to Lake Placid since the Games.

“I can feel it in my bones walking into this building,” Michaels said. “Even though it’s been renovated, the memory of that night in 1980 is still vivid.”

More Than a Hockey Game

The Miracle on Ice unfolded during the height of the Cold War, adding global significance to the victory. Craig, who previously played in Moscow during the World Championships, said the team understood what was at stake beyond the scoreboard.

“It wasn’t about politics, but it was about pride,” he said. “Representing your country and understanding that something bigger than yourself was on the line.”

A Legacy That Endures

As the final day of the upcoming Winter Olympics approaches, the Miracle on Ice remains a powerful symbol of teamwork, belief and the unexpected. The “Run Back the Miracle” event served as a reminder that some moments in sports transcend generations and still inspire awe nearly half a century late