In a heated clash at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Team Canada winger Tom Wilson was ejected from Sunday's dominant 10-2 victory over France following a wild brawl with Pierre Crinon. Officials blocked Wilson as he attempted to land more hits on Crinon, an incident captured in images from RvS.Media/Monika Majer. The enforcer, known for his physical play, could face a further suspension under Olympic rules that prohibit fighting.
Canada has powered through its first three games at the tournament, with the 10-2 rout of France marking its largest margin of victory yet. North American fans are already envisioning a dream Canada-USA gold medal matchup, made possible after the NHL finally permitted its players to participate in the Olympics.
Unlike the NHL, where fighting is tolerated, the Olympics enforce a strict no-fighting policy, resulting in instant ejections for offenders. Wilson, a serial enforcer for the Washington Capitals in the NHL, exemplified this contrast by getting physical on the ice against France.
Wilson had an eventful afternoon in Milan, contributing offensively with a goal and an assist before the altercation. The fight erupted in the third period, by which point Canada had already built an insurmountable 10-2 lead over a frustrated French squad.
The incident was sparked when Crinon delivered a forearm to the head of Canada star Nathan MacKinnon. Minutes later, Wilson dropped the gloves with Crinon, escalating the tension in a game where France appeared out of its depth.
As Canada continues its strong run, the ejection serves as a reminder of the cultural differences between Olympic and NHL hockey. Wilson's physical style, while celebrated in professional leagues, carries higher risks on this international stage.
