Although still over a year away, the schedule has been revealed for the 2026 Winter Olympics Women’s Hockey Tournament as preliminary games begin February 5th, 2026, and conclude February 10th, 2026. Game times are expected to suit North American viewers, with contests starting at 6:10 am ET (11:10 UK), 10:40 ET (15:40 UK), and 15:10 (20:10 UK). Some days will feature up to four games.

The quarterfinals will take place on February 14th-15th, with the semi-finals set for February 16th, beginning at 10:40 ET (15:40 UK) and 15:10 ET (20:10 UK). The Bronze Medal Game is scheduled for February 19th at 10:40 ET (15:40 UK), with the Gold Medal Game on the same day at 15:10 ET (20:10 UK).

The women’s ice hockey tournament, running alongside the men’s event, will be held at two venues. The primary arena, PalaItalia Santa Giulia, currently under construction, will accommodate 16,000 spectators. The secondary venue, Fiera Milano, will feature temporary seating to expand its capacity and is expected to host Group B games.

As in most international women’s tournaments, 10 teams will compete. Six nations have already secured their spots: host country Italy, along with Canada, Czechia, Finland, Switzerland, and the United States, based on world rankings.

While Russia is currently ranked sixth by the IIHF and would typically qualify, ongoing sanctions may bar their participation in both the men’s and women’s tournaments. If excluded, Japan, ranked seventh, would claim the final automatic berth.

In the coming months, 21 nations will vie for the remaining three Olympic spots through the final two qualification stages. Traditional European powerhouses Sweden and Germany must secure their place in the tournament, regardless of Russia’s participation status.

The second qualification round will be held from December 12th-15th, 2024, with the final round taking place across Europe and Japan from February 6th-9th, 2025.