Canada-Finland Olympic hockey game postponed after stomach virus depletes roster

Canada forward Marie-Philip Poulin, left, celebrates with defensewoman Renata Fast, second from left, forward Daryl Watts (95) and forward Julia Gosling after scoring during the second period of a Rivalry Series women's hockey game against the United States, Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, in Buffalo, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)

MILAN -- Finland women’s hockey team’s preliminary round-opening game against Canada on Thursday has been postponed due to a stomach virus depleting Finland’s roster.

The game was rescheduled to Feb. 12.

The decision to postpone the game was announced shortly after Finland completed its early afternoon practice with just eight skaters and two goalies. The remaining 13 players are either in quarantine or isolation due to a norovirus that began affecting the team on Tuesday night.

The postponement provides Finland two extra days to rest before playing the U.S. on Saturday. Had their game against Canada not been postponed, Finnish officials were considering the possibility of a forfeiture.

“While all stakeholders recognize the disappointment of not playing the game as originally scheduled, this was a responsible and necessary decision that reflects the spirit of the Olympic Games and the integrity of the competition,” Olympic officials announced.

“All stakeholders thank teams, partners and fans for their cooperation and understanding, and look forward to the rescheduled game being played under safe and appropriate conditions.”

By John Wawrow, The Associated Press