Radko Gudas apologizes for slur, isn't concerned about Crosby fallout

The Czech hockey player faced criticism for his actions during the Olympic quarterfinal game against Canada.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 1:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Radko Gudas, a player for the Anaheim Ducks, acknowledged that he used a homophobic slur during the Czech Republic's Olympic quarterfinal hockey game against Canada. Gudas also was involved in a play that resulted in an injury to Canadian captain Sidney Crosby, leading to significant online backlash. Gudas apologized for the slur, saying he didn't realize the full meaning of the word and that his emotions got the best of him in the heat of the moment. He also expressed remorse over Crosby's injury, stating it was a "freak accident" and that he didn't intend to hurt anyone.

Why it matters

Gudas's use of the homophobic slur and his involvement in Crosby's injury have drawn widespread attention and criticism, raising questions about sportsmanship, player conduct, and the culture of hockey. The incident highlights the need for greater awareness and accountability around the use of offensive language in sports.

The details

During the Czech Republic's quarterfinal game against Canada, Gudas was heard yelling a homophobic slur as he was being sent to the penalty box. The slur was audible on the broadcast but largely went unnoticed until it was later amplified online. Gudas was not disciplined for the incident, despite precedent for similar language being penalized in the past. In the same game, Gudas was also involved in a hit on Crosby that resulted in the Canadian captain's injury, forcing him to miss the remainder of the tournament. Gudas was not penalized for the hit, but has faced significant backlash online.

  • The incident occurred during the Czech Republic's quarterfinal game against Canada on February 18, 2026.
  • Gudas acknowledged and apologized for the slur during an interview with The Athletic on February 25, 2026.

The players

Radko Gudas

A player for the Anaheim Ducks who is in his second season as the team's captain. Gudas has a history of hard-nosed play and suspensions throughout his 14-year NHL career.

Sidney Crosby

The captain of the Canadian Olympic hockey team and a three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Crosby is considered a great ambassador for the sport.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm a very passionate guy. I put my heart on a sleeve, and I take the game very seriously. I didn't realize at that moment the full meaning of the word and I'm really sorry they had to be part of it. Learn from our mistakes.”

— Radko Gudas

“Hundred percent. I think as a sport we take pride in staying away from those things. In the heat of the moment, the emotions got the best of me and I'm sorry for the way it looks in all of hockey. Nothing I can do about right now, but I feel sorry about that.”

— Radko Gudas

“You never want to put heat on anyone, on the sport, on yourself with stuff like this. Definitely a learning experience for me.”

— Radko Gudas

“You're not trying to hurt anybody. I've seen the other side of it. That's the one downfall of the Olympics, and unfortunately it happened to (Crosby) and Canada and the guy that was (the captain) on our team.”

— Ryan Strome, Anaheim Ducks forward

“I think it's unnecessary. I think in the last like maybe couple of days, we've seen more than ever, like how toxic it is online. … I think everybody in the hockey world knows that he didn't do anything wrong (on that play). He plays the game to win. That's what everyone's trying to do. And it's unfortunate something happened.”

— Ryan Strome, Anaheim Ducks forward

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.