If Switzerland is forced to miss the Canada game, it will be a second straight game affected by norovirus for one of the two overwhelming tournament favorites. The Canadians were supposed to open the Olympics with a game against Finland, but that was postponed following the outbreak.

Team Canada was set to play its opening game of the 2026 Olympic women's hockey tournament in Italy on Thursday.

"The decision was taken following consultations with medical professionals after cases of norovirus were identified within Team Finland," the Games organising committee said.