Sidney Crosby injury update delivers blow to Team Canada ahead of Olympic semifinals

Sidney Crosby is dealing with a right leg injury, and the timing couldn’t be worse for Team Canada.

The Pittsburgh Penguins captain went down during Canada’s February 18 quarterfinal victory over Czechia, and while the play did not look serious at first, the fallout has been significant.

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The bigger concern extends beyond this week as fans are wondering if this could affect his availability for the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.

Hockey Canada made it official on Thursday. Crosby has been ruled out for Friday’s semifinal matchup against Finland because of the leg injury sustained in the quarterfinal, per ESPN.

The Penguins star has been the backbone of Team Canada for years, and losing him at this stage creates a real leadership void. Connor McDavid will step into the captain’s role as Canada looks to advance to the gold medal game.

Crosby is in his 21st NHL season and remains one of the league’s most decorated players, which makes his absence even more noticeable.

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Nathan MacKinnon, Sidney Crosby, Darcy Kuemper and Logan Thompson of Canada celebrate after the match against Switzerland in men’s ice hockey group A play during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Marton Monus/Reuters via Imagn Images

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Canada earned its spot in the final four and now faces a straightforward task. Beat Finland and they’re playing for gold.

The semifinal is set for Friday, February 20, with fans able to stream the game on Peacock at 10:40 a.m. ET. USA Network will also carry the broadcast starting at 11:50 a.m. ET.