The world’s top hockey talent is hitting the ice. The 2026 IIHF Women’s World Championship kicks off Friday, with reigning Olympic and Worlds champion USA Hockey leading the pack.
The revamped 10-team field is split into two groups. The US opening group-stage play against Switzerland while arch-rival Canada faces Sweden.
The Canadians chase redemption without injured veteran Marie-Philip Poulin, looking to bounce back after suffering two title-game losses to returning captain Hilary Knight’s US squad.
Amid a months-long jersey rights fight with the IIHF Women’s World Championship, both titans will skate in generic kits showcasing country names instead of their national crests.
The rivalry still promises to bring the heat, with Canada and USA Hockey historically swapping titles as the 36-year-old tournament’s only champions.
“You learn so much from these tournaments,” said Team USA’s 2026 Olympic MVP Caroline “KK” Harvey. “There are ups and downs — especially in the finals against Canada — and those experiences teach you how to overcome adversity.”
The IIHF World Championship starts Friday at 1 PM ET (NHL Network).
