The 2026 Winter Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Tournament promises to be a historic event, marking the return of NHL players to Olympic competition for the first time since 2014. Set against the stunning backdrop of Milano Cortina, Italy, this tournament will showcase the world’s elite hockey talent in a battle for international supremacy.
After missing the 2018 and 2022 Games, NHL players will officially participate in the 2026 Olympics, thanks to an agreement between the NHL, NHLPA, IIHF, and IOC
This return elevates the level of competition and brings global attention to the tournament, with superstars like Sydney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and David Pastrňák expected to represent their nations.
Group A: Canada, Finland, Switzerland, France
Group B: Czech Republic, Sweden, Slovakia, Italy
Group C: USA, Germany, Latvia, Denmark
The 2026 Olympic tournament is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of hockey’s global reach and a preview of future international events, including the World Cup of Hockey in 2028.
Hockey News