Sidney Crosby Out of Olympic Quarterfinal Game Due to Injury
Written By Gina Anton
MILAN — In a dramatic moment during the 2026 Winter Olympics men’s ice hockey quarterfinal matchup between Sidney Crosby and Czechia, Team Canada’s veteran captain was forced from the ice with a lower-body injury and did not return for the remainder of the game.
The injury came midway through the second period of what was expected to be a decisive contest in Canada’s pursuit of Olympic gold. Crosby, 38 and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, appeared to be sandwiched into the boards following heavy contact by Czech defenseman Radko Gudas, with additional pressure from Martin Necas in the play. Shortly after the hit, Crosby was visibly favoring his right leg and soon made his way slowly from the ice toward the locker room.
Crosby’s exit came at a tense moment, Canada trailed 2-1 when he left the game. Despite the setback, the Canadian squad showed resilience by rallying to tie the game and eventually win in an exhilarating overtime finish. However, Crosby’s absence was immediately felt, both on the scoreboard and in the team’s leadership structure.
Before his injury, Crosby had been a key contributor in the tournament, tallying multiple goals and assists in preliminary round play. His leadership on and off the ice has long been a cornerstone for Canada in international competition, including his famous overtime golden goal in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics and a dominant unbeaten performance as captain in 2014.
Following the game, head coach Jon Cooper delivered an emotional message regarding his captain’s status.
“No way this was going to be Sid’s last game,” Cooper said, expressing confidence that Crosby’s Olympic story is not yet finished despite the frightening injury scare.
As of now, there has been no official update on the severity of his injury or his availability for future Olympic games, including the semifinal and medal rounds. Team officials and coaching staff have refrained from offering a definitive timeline, stating only that Crosby is being evaluated as the tournament progresses.
This development leaves Canada’s gold medal aspirations hinging on the deep talent of its roster, but the loss of Crosby, one of the most decorated and influential players in international hockey. is a significant competitive blow.
Fans and analysts alike will be monitoring updates closely, hopeful that this injury will prove manageable and not end Crosby’s Olympic journey prematurely.
