The Czech women's Olympic ice hockey team heads into Milano-Cortina 2026 with strong momentum, having recently earned two bronze medals at the IIHF Women’s World Championships. Under head coach Carla MacLeod, they showcase a roster bolstered by PWHL talent, including standout rookie Kristýna Kaltounková, who has excelled with the New York Sirens. Following a solid performance at the 2022 Olympics, where they finished seventh, this team aims to upset traditional rivals Canada and the USA, fueled by confidence from their recent international experiences.

By the Numbers
  • Czechia has won two bronze medals in the last four IIHF Women’s World Championships.
  • Kristýna Kaltounková scored 8 goals and 1 assist in 9 games this season for the New York Sirens.
State of Play
  • Czechia comes off a fourth-place finish at the 2025 World Championships, conceding 21 goals in 7 games.
  • Coached by Carla MacLeod, who continues to lead with determination despite her recent breast cancer diagnosis.
What's Next

Czechia is set to face top teams in Group A, starting with a match against the USA on February 5. The team's goal is to secure a quarterfinal spot, aiming for an opportunity to medal, potentially challenging for silver or gold. Their performance in preliminary games will determine their path forward in the knockout stage.

Bottom Line

Czechia enters the Olympics with one of its best rosters, driven by experienced PWHL players and a resilient coaching approach. Their focus on improvement and youthful talent positions them as dark horses capable of surprising their higher-ranked opponents. A realistic expectation of a medal reflects their ambition and preparedness for challenging matchups.