The U.S. and Canada, hockey powerhouses, clash in the 2026 Winter Olympics with both seeking gold amid intense rivalry and high stakes.

The U.S. and Canada, longtime hockey rivals, are set to compete for Olympic dominance at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games, with both teams fielding elite rosters and strong recent performances. Canada, the defending champion with stars like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, enters as the gold medal favorite. The U.S., aiming for its first men's hockey gold since 1980, has closed the gap through improved talent development and key wins in the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off. Shorter Olympic rinks may increase pace and intensity, while goaltending gives the U.S. an edge. Though the teams may not meet in the medal rounds, their rivalry remains central to the tournament, with European nations also posing strong challenges.