Sidney Crosby is once again taking up the mantle of Captain Canada as he leads the charge for Team Canada at the 2025 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship. Hockey Canada made the announcement on Friday, May 9, 2025, confirming Crosby's role as captain, alongside alternate captains Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche and Ryan O’Reilly of the Nashville Predators.
Crosby, who has established himself as a cornerstone of Canadian hockey, is no stranger to leadership roles. At 37 years old, he continues to defy age with his stellar play, coming off one of the best seasons of his illustrious career. In 2024-2025, Crosby scored 33 goals and amassed 91 points over 80 games, marking his 13th season with 30 or more goals and his 14th season with over 80 points in his 20-year NHL career.
This year’s World Championship marks the fifth time Crosby has served as captain for Team Canada. His previous captaincies include gold-medal victories at the 4 Nations Face-Off earlier in 2025, the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, and the 2014 Sochi Olympics. His international experience is vast, with 52 points (21 goals, 31 assists) in 42 games of senior international competition. He is widely recognized for scoring the tournament-winning goal against the United States in overtime at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, a moment etched in Canadian sports history.
As Canada prepares to compete, they are looking to rebound from a disappointing finish at the 2024 World Championship, where they placed fourth after losing 4-2 to Sweden in the bronze-medal game. This was Canada’s worst finish at the IIHF World Championship since 2018, and the team is eager to restore its reputation as a dominant force in international hockey.
The 2025 IIHF World Championship is being held in Stockholm, Sweden, and Herning, Denmark, from May 9 to May 25. Canada kicks off its tournament with a match against Slovenia scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 6:20 a.m. ET. Fans can catch the action on NHL Network in the United States and TSN1/4 in Canada. For those looking to stream the game, Fubo is available in the U.S., while Canadian viewers can watch on TSN.ca and the TSN app.
In addition to Crosby, Team Canada boasts a talented roster that includes Calder Memorial Trophy finalist Macklin Celebrini, the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, along with fellow NHL stars like MacKinnon. The combination of seasoned veterans and emerging talent has many analysts predicting that Canada is the team to beat this year.
The excitement surrounding the tournament is palpable, and Crosby’s leadership will be pivotal as Canada aims for gold. His track record of success in international play provides a strong foundation for the team. Crosby’s experience and skill set are expected to guide the younger players as they navigate the challenges of the tournament.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Crosby and his teammates. The stakes are high, and with Canada’s rich hockey history, the pressure to perform is immense. Fans are hopeful that Crosby can lead them back to the podium, restoring pride after last year’s lackluster performance.
With the puck set to drop against Slovenia, the anticipation builds. Will Crosby and Team Canada rise to the occasion? Can they reclaim their place as the best in the world? The answers will begin to unfold as the tournament progresses.
