Hockey Canada revealed a preview of the jerseys for the upcoming Olympic teams competing in Milan, sparking mixed reactions from fans.
The preview shows jerseys featuring prominent black elements, including thick black stripes on the sleeves and possibly a black maple leaf reminiscent of the 2022 Beijing Olympic design. Fans expressed dissatisfaction with the addition of black to the traditional red and white color scheme.
"I’ve never seen Black on a Canadian Flag," tweeted @CalderSnub22. "I’ll never understand the obsession of adding black to our color scheme," wrote @kjc_2599.
The previous Olympic jerseys with black accents were worn at Beijing, where the non-NHL roster exited in the quarterfinals against Sweden. This past performance partly fuels fans’ desire for a refreshed look.
"So basically the same as the previous Olympic jerseys? Logos and strips look the same. Disappointing," shared @curmudgeonaf.
The full jersey unveiling took place Thursday, confirming the black details. These Olympic jerseys contrast with the primarily red and white uniforms Team Canada wore during the recent 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, which they won.
"It's a shame because the 4 Nations jersey was elite," commented @DrCrackOfficial.
Team Canada must submit the final Olympic roster in over a month, but fans are already vocal about the aesthetic direction of the jerseys.
Author's summary: The controversial return of black in Team Canada's Olympic hockey jerseys divides fans, who favor the more traditional red and white seen in recent tournament wins.