Canada's Tom Wilson, France's Pierre Crinon Scuffle in Olympic Hockey Game

Fight broke out after Crinon's hit on Canada's Nathan MacKinnon

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A fight broke out between Canada's Tom Wilson and France's Pierre Crinon during Sunday's Olympic hockey game between the two countries. The scuffle occurred after Crinon was called for interference on a hit against Canada's Nathan MacKinnon. Both players were ejected from the game and received penalties, but will not face suspensions for the incident.

Why it matters

Fighting is prohibited in Olympic hockey, so any altercations between players are noteworthy. This incident highlights the intensity and physicality of the sport, as well as the potential for retaliation when players feel their teammates have been unfairly targeted.

The details

The fight began after Crinon was called for interference on a hit against Canada's Nathan MacKinnon. Wilson then went after Crinon, and the two players engaged in a wrestling match with no punches thrown. Both were ejected from the game and received two minutes for roughing, five minutes for fighting, and a game misconduct penalty.

  • The incident occurred in the third period of Sunday's Canada-France Olympic hockey game.

The players

Tom Wilson

A Canadian hockey player who plays for the Canada national team.

Pierre Crinon

A French hockey player who plays for the France national team.

Nathan MacKinnon

A Canadian hockey player who plays for the Canada national team.

Drew Doughty

A Canadian hockey player who plays for the Canada national team and the Los Angeles Kings in the NHL.

Connor McDavid

A Canadian hockey player who plays for the Canada national team.

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What they’re saying

“Obviously fighting isn't a big thing in this tournament, but when a guy takes a run at one of our big guys, that's what Willy does. I mean, he does a lot more than that, but it was great to see him step up.”

— Drew Doughty, Canada defenseman (Sportsnet)

“We didn't like the hit: felt like it was late and high. Willy just finishes a check and the guy jumps him, and Willy's just protecting himself. That's all he can do. That's the type of guy he is, type of teammate he is. Nothing but respect for him.”

— Connor McDavid (Reporters)

What’s next

Neither Wilson nor Crinon will face suspensions for the incident and will be eligible to play in their next games.

The takeaway

This fight highlights the intense physicality and emotions that can arise in Olympic hockey, where fighting is prohibited. While the incident did not escalate to a full-blown brawl, it showcases the willingness of players to defend their teammates and the potential for retaliation when they feel a player has been unfairly targeted.