When is Olympic ice hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics?

The women’s Olympic ice hockey tournament runs February 5–19, 2026. The men’s tournament runs February 11–22, 2026.

Where is Olympic ice hockey played at the 2026 Winter Olympics?

Ice hockey will be played at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena and the Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena in Italy. The men’s and women’s gold medal games are held at Milano Santagiulia.

Are NHL players participating in Olympic ice hockey in 2026?

Yes. NHL players are officially allowed to return to the Winter Olympics for the first time since 2014, following an agreement involving the NHLPA, NHL, IOC, and IIHF.

What TV channel is airing Olympic ice hockey in the U.S.?

In the U.S., Olympic ice hockey games will air across NBCUniversal channels, including NBC, USA Network, and CNBC, depending on the matchup and time of day.

How can I watch Olympic ice hockey without cable?

You can watch Olympic ice hockey without cable using live TV streaming services that carry NBC and USA Network, including DIRECTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV (Blue in select areas), and YouTube TV. You can also stream via Peacock.

Can I stream Olympic ice hockey on Peacock?

Yes. Peacock streams Winter Olympics coverage and is a primary streaming option to watch Olympic ice hockey live and on demand.

Can I stream Olympic ice hockey on NBCOlympics.com or the NBC Sports app?

Yes. NBCOlympics.com and the NBC Sports apps offer live streams and coverage during the Olympics.

Will Olympic ice hockey games air at convenient times in the U.S.?

Because the Games are in Italy, many ice hockey games are expected to air in morning through afternoon time slots in the U.S., which can be ideal for weekday viewing.

What are the best tips for watching Olympic ice hockey during the 2026 Winter Olympics?

Check game times early due to the Italy time zone, watch group-stage games for upsets and storylines, and plan ahead for elimination rounds and medal games when the intensity ramps up.

Which teams are favorites in Olympic ice hockey in 2026?

Based on recent history, Team USA and Team Canada are commonly viewed as top contenders on both the men’s and women’s sides. Sweden and Finland are also teams to watch in the men’s tournament.

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United States and Germany players shake hands Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games

[US, Mexico & Canada customers only] Feb 15, 2026; Milan, Italy; United States and Germany players shake hands after competing in men's ice hockey group C play during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Marton Monus/Reuters via Imagn Images

How to Watch Ice Hockey Playoffs in the 2026 Winter Olympics: Schedule, Streaming, Location, and More

By Russell Raunam | Last updated Feb 17, 2026 6:06 PM ET

Affiliate Disclosure Statement: If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn a share of the revenue from our affiliate partners.

The 2026 Winter Olympics hockey group stage has finished and playoffs have started to heat up the ice. With Canada (3-0-0-0) leading Group A, Slovakia (2-0-1-0) leading Group B, and the hometown kids of team USA (3-0-0-0) securing a bye from Group C, the bracket is set. Group A and C's leaders leave no surprise to fans as we're expecting to see these two powerhouses meet on February 22nd in the Gold Medal match.

After dominating performances, nail biters, and even a few questionable calls, this years winter olympics is proving to be one that fans can really enjoy with NHL players back in the mix.

Whether you’re cheering for Team USA, Team Canada, or any of the other contenders fighting in qualifiers, there's plenty of ways to catch every goal and save on live TV during the Olympics.

2026 Winter Olympics Ice Hockey - Quick Info

Dates:

Women’s tournament (Playoffs): February 13–19, 2026
Men’s tournament (Playoffs): February 17–22, 2026

Location:

Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena (Men's & Women's Gold Medal Matches held here)
Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena

Must Know:

NHL players are officially allowed to return to the Winter Olympics for the first time since 2014. An agreement between NHLPA, NHL, IOC, and IIHF has enabled the top players in the world back in the Olympics.

Where to Watch Ice Hockey in the Winter Olympics

U.S. TV Broadcast:

Broadcasts across NBCUniversal channels, including NBC, USA Network, and CNBC, depending on the matchup and time of day.

Live Streaming Options:

DIRECTV
Peacock
Hulu + Live TV
YouTube TV
Sling TV (Blue)
NBCOlympics.com and NBC Sports apps

Watch Ice Hockey Playoffs in the Winter Olympics on a DIRECTV Genre Pack (5 Day Free Trial)

Ice Hockey in the Winter Olympics are available on NBC and USA Network which means that DIRECTV's new Genre Packs cover your broadcast needs to watch some sick deeking across the ice. The new offering from a reputable service grants users the access to pay for only the channels that they watch without paying any extra for the channels that usually go unwatched.

Take advantage of the 5-day free trial on the MySports Genre Pack to watch all the action in this year's Ice Hockey battle in the Winter Olympics.

Watch Ice Hockey in the Winter Olympics on Peacock

Peacock hosts Winter Olympics coverage and provides even more access with extra broadcasts covering all things Winter Olympics. Although no free trial, users can get in at just $10.99/mo to watch the every 4 year spectacle that is the Winter Olympics.

Watch Ice Hockey in the Winter Olympics Live on Hulu + Live TV (3 Days Free)

Gaining access to Hulu + Live TV before The Winter Olympics so you know you are covered once the puck drops. Anyone who knows Hulu, knows that they have one of the largest on-demand content libraries that can keep you busy long after the big hits have been delivered. With a 3 day free trial, it's a simple way to test out the service for a Canada vs. USA bout.

Watch Ice Hockey in the Winter Olympics on YouTube TV Live

A one-stop-shop when it comes to streaming. With their only option being the base plan, YouTube TV takes the hassle of choice out while finding a way to watch Hockey at the Winter Olympics. Sign up for a free trial and get your first 2 months $25 off after the Winter Games are complete.

Watch Ice Hockey in the Winter Olympics Live on Sling TV

Sling TV provides local coverage of NBC on its Blue plan in select area codes. Make sure to check your area to ensure you’ll have access to watch Ice Hockey in this year's Winter Olympics. If you’re lucky enough to be in the right area, you’ll get 50% off your first month's subscription.

Quick Tips for Watching Ice Hockey in the 2026 Winter Olympics

Check game times ahead of time: Milan’s time zone means many games air in morning through afternoon U.S. time slots. This makes it perfect for watching with coffee or lunch on weekdays and taking a break from whatever work you may have.
Group stage to finals: Watch early group matchups for upsets and storylines before the intensity cranks up in the elimination rounds.
NHL Stars Are Back: After missing recent Games, NHL players return to Olympic ice, bringing the world’s best talent to Milan and Cortina and elevating the competition.
Our Predictions: Based on history alone, we’re expecting to see both USA and Canada in the finals for the Men’s and Women’s side of things. Keep an eye on Sweden and Finland in the men’s brackets

Russell is a 22-year-old from Dallas, Texas, who recently graduated from Texas Tech University with a degree in Sports Journalism. He can talk about sports all day long and is also passionate about comedy and entertainment.