A frightening scene unfolded Friday at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics 2026 when Switzerland’s Kevin Fiala was stretchered off the ice following a late-game collision in a 5–1 preliminary-round loss to Canada.
With just under three minutes remaining in the third period, Fiala became tangled along the boards with Canadian forward Tom Wilson. As the two fell, Wilson came down on Fiala’s left leg, which appeared to twist awkwardly beneath him.
Fiala immediately signaled toward his skate in visible distress and was unable to put weight on the injured limb. Medical personnel rushed onto the ice and stabilized his leg in an air cast before carefully placing him face down on a stretcher. As he was wheeled off, players from both teams tapped their sticks in a show of support. No penalty was assessed on the play.
The collision quickly sparked debate online. Some viewers criticized the hit as unnecessary, while others described it as an unfortunate accident, noting that Wilson appeared unable to control how he landed. Regardless of intent, the result was a devastating moment for Switzerland, as Fiala is one of the team’s key offensive leaders.
Through two preliminary games, Fiala had already recorded an assist, contributing to Switzerland’s 4–0 win over France on Feb. 12. The Swiss now sit at 1–1 in Group A and face a crucial matchup against Czechia that will help determine tournament seeding.
Beyond the Olympic implications, the injury also raises concern for the Los Angeles Kings. Fiala has been instrumental in the Kings’ season, tallying 40 points (18 goals, 22 assists) in 56 NHL games. With Los Angeles set to resume play on Feb. 25 following the Olympic break, his health could significantly impact the team’s push in the Western Conference playoff race.
Fiala has previously endured a serious lower-body injury. During the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he suffered a fractured femur that required surgery in St. Louis and ended his postseason run.
He is not the only NHL player to face injury concerns early in the Olympic tournament. Canada’s Josh Morrissey and Finland’s Niko Mikkola have also dealt with injuries during preliminary play.
As Olympic hockey continues to deliver high drama and emotional moments, all eyes now turn to updates on Fiala’s condition — with fans in Switzerland and Los Angeles hoping for positive news.
