Olympijský hokej žen: MacLeod, Češky a cesta za medailí v Miláně 2026

The women’s ice‑hockey tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan has already begun, even as NHL players are still preparing for their own travel.

Carla MacLeod leads the Czech women’s team

Canada‑born Carla MacLeod, a two‑time Olympic champion, is the head coach of the Czech women’s national team. She openly asserts that “women belong in the NHL” and is guiding the squad toward a medal‑contending performance.

From Nagano to Milan

MacLeod recalls how the 1998 Nagano Games, where the Czech team lost the final to the United States 1 : 3, sparked her lifelong ambition. The experience gave her both motivation and recognition, despite early doubts that “women’s hockey is a marginal sport with a small base.”

Historical roots of women’s hockey

The first unofficial world championship took place in 1987 in Toronto, featuring teams that could afford the trip, such as Canada, Ontario, the USA, Sweden, the Netherlands, Japan and Switzerland. Canada won, with Ontario placing second, and three years later the IIHF organized the first official women’s world championship.

Attendance at the 1998 Nagano women’s tournament averaged 4 806 spectators, rising to over 8 000 for the final, underscoring the growing public interest.

Recent successes

The Czech women’s team earned bronze medals at the World Championships in 2022 and 2023. Their recent placements include 4th in 2024 and 2025, and 7th in 2021, reflecting steady progress under MacLeod’s tenure.

Did You Know? The inaugural unofficial women’s world championship in 1987 was held in Toronto and featured a team from the Canadian province of Ontario that finished second.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that MacLeod’s dual experience as an elite player and coach provides a rare blend of technical expertise and mental‑resilience training, which could be pivotal for the Czech squad’s push for an Olympic medal.

Beyond the rink, MacLeod champions gender equity in sport. She envisions a future where women compete in the NHL and where professional opportunities, such as the PWHL launched in 2024, allow athletes to focus on hockey as a full‑time career rather than a side job.

Her contract with the Czech federation has been extended through the 2026 Games in Italy, ensuring continuity as the team prepares for what could be its second Olympic appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the status of the women’s ice‑hockey tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympics?

The tournament in Milan is already underway, with the Czech team competing for a medal while NHL players are still finalising travel plans.

Who is Carla MacLeod?

Carla MacLeod is a Canadian former player who won two Olympic gold medals and now serves as head coach of the Czech women’s national ice‑hockey team, advocating for women’s inclusion in the NHL.

What recent medals have the Czech women’s ice‑hockey team achieved?

The team secured bronze medals at the World Championships in 2022 and 2023, and placed fourth in both 2024 and 2025.

How do you think the growing visibility of women’s hockey will influence future generations of athletes?