French ice hockey player Pierre Crinon faces a suspension from the remainder of the 2026 Winter Olympics after violating the Olympic spirit, as decided by the French Ice Hockey Federation (FFHG).
The Incident During France-Canada Clash
During France’s 10-2 loss to Canada on Monday, Crinon, a 30-year-old star from Bruleurs de Loups, collided heavily with Nathan MacKinnon in the third period. He received a two-minute penalty for striking his opponent in the face with his forearm.
Canada’s Tom Wilson, a veteran with the Washington Capitals, confronted Crinon, leading to a fight. Both players were ejected immediately, as fighting constitutes misconduct under International Ice Hockey Federation rules and is prohibited at the Olympics.
As Crinon headed to the locker room amid boos from the crowd, he provoked spectators by cupping his ears and urging louder jeers.
Federation’s Suspension Decision
Although Olympic authorities reviewed the fight and issued no further penalties to either player, the FFHG took decisive action. Pierre-Yves Gerbeau, FFHG president and deputy head of the French delegation, interviewed Crinon alongside Fabien Saguez, head of the Olympic delegation, the national technical director, and team staff.
The federation emphasized Crinon’s commitments as a selected Olympic athlete and the duty of national team players to uphold sport values, especially at the Games.
“Pierre Crinon’s provocative behaviour upon leaving the ice, even though he had just been ejected from the game for fighting, constitutes a clear violation of the Olympic spirit and also undermines the values of our sport,” the FFHG stated. In agreement with the French National Olympic and Sports Committee, they barred Crinon from upcoming matches.
Reactions from Canadian Players
Canada’s Connor McDavid commented on the hit: “We didn’t like the hit: felt like it was late and high. Willy just finishes a check and the guy jumps him, and Willy’s just protecting himself. That’s all he can do. That’s the type of guy he is, type of teammate he is. Nothing but respect for him.”
Drew Doughty added: “Obviously fighting isn’t a big thing in this tournament, but when a guy takes a run at one of our big guys, that’s what Willy does. It was great to see him step up.”
Head coach Jon Cooper remarked: “We’re used to a lot more than that happening, so it was pretty harmless in the grand scheme of things. Sticking up for his teammates, that’s an easy one for him.”
Tournament Progression
Crinon’s ban sidelined him for France’s qualifying playoff against Germany on Tuesday, where Les Bleus were eliminated early. Canada, Slovakia, the United States, and defending champions Finland advanced directly to the quarter-finals.
