As the countdown to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games continues, excitement is growing for the hockey tournaments featuring Team Canada. This event marks a significant return of NHL players to the Olympic stage for the first time since the Sochi 2014 Games, and anticipation is high for what promises to be a thrilling competition.
In the men’s tournament, six players have already been named to Team Canada: Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, Cale Makar, Nathan MacKinnon, Sam Reinhart, and Brayden Point. While Crosby brings a wealth of experience from previous Olympic appearances in Vancouver 2010 and Sochi 2014, the remaining players will be making their Olympic debuts. The full roster is expected to be announced in early January, further fueling excitement among fans.
On the women’s side, Team Canada has established itself as a powerhouse in Olympic hockey, having achieved podium finishes in every tournament since women’s hockey was introduced in 1998. As the reigning champions following their success at Beijing 2022, where captain Marie-Philip Poulin made history by scoring in four Olympic gold medal games, the team is poised to compete fiercely in Milan. Similar to the men’s team, the women’s roster will also be revealed in January.
Notably, Milano Cortina 2026 will be the first Olympic competition to feature the newly established Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), promising an added layer of excitement to the event.
Adding to the anticipation, the design of Team Canada’s jerseys for the upcoming Games was revealed during a recent Rivalry Series game between the Canadian and American women’s national teams. Fans will have two jersey options: a white jersey adorned with a multi-toned red maple leaf crest and red stripes, and a red jersey featuring a multi-shaded black maple leaf crest with black stripes. Each jersey design emphasizes the iconic maple leaf, drawing inspiration from the strength and brilliance of diamonds, symbols of resilience under pressure.
Starting November 7 at 10 a.m. ET, fans will have the opportunity to purchase replica jerseys through Hockey Canada, with a portion of the proceeds supporting winter sports development across the nation. Additionally, name and numbered semi-pro jerseys of select players will be available in early December.
With Canada holding the record for the most Olympic hockey medals—23 in total, including 14 gold—there is high hope for success at Milano Cortina 2026. While the outcomes remain to be determined, one certainty is that Team Canada will showcase a striking presence on the ice as they aim for another championship.