As the world turns its gaze towards the excitement of the upcoming Winter Olympics, one voice stands ready to capture the drama of Canada’s ice hockey journey. Chris Cuthbert, a seasoned commentator with over three decades of experience, is set to call Canada’s matches at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Cuthbert is eager to witness a repeat of the historic moments that defined his career, especially the unforgettable gold-medal game in Vancouver 2010.
A Historic Legacy
On February 28, 2010, Canadian hearts raced as Sidney Crosby etched his name into the annals of hockey history with a golden goal against Team USA. Just 22 years old at the time, Crosby scored in sudden death overtime, clinching a thrilling 3-2 victory that sent shockwaves of jubilation across Canada. Chris Cuthbert, who was behind the microphone that day, recalls the electric atmosphere: “Sidney Crosby!” he exclaimed as the puck hit the net. “And Canada has a once-in-a-lifetime Olympic gold!”
That victory marked Canada’s first Olympic gold in men’s hockey since Salt Lake City in 2002, a moment that reignited a national passion for the sport. Cuthbert, now 68, reflects on the significance of that game: “I’d say that 2010 was the top of the mountain for me. To call goals for Canada that are so big, that’s pretty special.”
The Road to Milan
Cuthbert is gearing up for the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, where he will commentate on each of Canada’s matches, starting on February 12, 2026, against Czechia. Following that, they are scheduled to face Switzerland and France before the playoff rounds, with the hope of reaching the gold-medal game on February 22. His extensive experience covers not just hockey, but also over 800 Canadian Football League games, making him a familiar voice in Canadian sports.
The anticipation surrounding this year’s Olympic hockey tournament is palpable, especially after the absence of NHL players from the previous two Winter Olympics. The Four Nations Face-Off, held last spring in lieu of the NHL All-Star Game, was a significant event that showcased top talent and reignited hopes for NHL participation in the Olympics. Cuthbert’s involvement in this tournament, along with his role in the CBC documentary *Rivals: The Four Nations Face-Off*, has set the stage for a highly competitive Olympic environment.
The Impact of NHL Players’ Return
The return of NHL players to the Olympic stage is monumental. The last time they participated was in 2014, with a series of disputes over travel costs and marketing rights preventing their involvement in the subsequent games. The Four Nations Face-Off successfully demonstrated the fan demand for high-calibre international competition, making their return to the Olympics all the more significant.
Cuthbert’s voice has been synonymous with pivotal moments in Canadian hockey, and he is prepared for the possibility of calling another gold-medal match. “Since 2010, I have told myself that if I had another chance to call another gold-medal game, I know what I’d say,” he noted, hinting at the emotional weight such a game would carry.
The Spirit of Competition
The 2026 Olympics are not just an opportunity for Canada to reclaim its hockey dominance; they represent a chance for a new generation of players to make their mark on the international stage. With stars like Connor McDavid leading the charge, the excitement surrounding Team Canada’s potential is undeniable. McDavid, who has never participated in the Olympics before, will undoubtedly bring a fresh energy to the squad.
Cuthbert’s excitement mirrors that of hockey fans across the nation. He is eager to see how this iteration of Team Canada will perform under pressure, especially given the high stakes of Olympic competition. “I think it brought us something I’m not sure any of us expected,” he said of the Four Nations, highlighting the renewed enthusiasm for international hockey.
Why it Matters
The upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan hold profound significance for Canadian hockey, representing not only a chance to reclaim glory but also an opportunity to unite the nation through sport. With iconic figures like Chris Cuthbert calling the action, and a roster filled with elite talent, Canada looks poised for a thrilling campaign. The anticipation surrounding this event underscores the country’s rich hockey heritage and its unwavering passion for the game. As the puck drops in 2026, the hope is for another defining moment in Canadian sports history, one that reinforces the spirit of unity and pride that only hockey can bring.
