Finland–Canada Olympic women’s hockey game postponed after norovirus cases

The Olympic women’s hockey game between Finland and Canada was postponed after norovirus cases were identified within Finland’s team. The match had been scheduled for 5 February, but organisers confirmed a new start of 14:30 on 12 February at the Milano Rho arena.

The decision followed consultations with medical professionals and was made jointly by the International Olympic Committee, local organisers, the IIHF and both teams. Their statement identified the health of players, staff, officials and other participants as the central consideration.

The announcement acknowledged the disappointment caused by changing the opening schedule while explaining that postponement was necessary for the competition to continue under appropriate conditions. It established a replacement fixture rather than cancelling the game, allowing the group-stage programme to retain the planned meeting between the countries.