Actor Stanley Tucci dined with the U.S. Olympic Women’s Ice Hockey Team on Sunday, February 9th, during their time in Milan, Italy, ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. The unexpected meal, confirmed by USA Hockey and NBC Olympics, provided a moment of respite for the team as they prepare for the quarterfinal round.
Tucci engaged the players in conversation, reportedly discussing potential hockey positions he might play, and the longstanding rivalry between the U.S. And Canada, according to NBC Olympics. The informal gathering took place on a day off for the team, offering a break from training and competition.
The U.S. Women’s Ice Hockey Team secured a top seed in the playoff round with a decisive 5-0 victory over Canada on February 11th. Their undefeated preliminary round performance included wins against Czechia, Finland, and Switzerland. They will face Italy in the quarterfinal on Friday, February 13th, at 9:10 p.m. CET (3:10 p.m. ET) on USA Network. This marks the first-ever Olympic meeting between the U.S. And Italy in women’s hockey.
USA Hockey Executive Director Pat Kelleher addressed both the U.S. Olympic Men’s and Women’s Ice Hockey Teams at a lunch held at the Starbucks Winter House in Milan on Wednesday, February 11th, emphasizing the significance of representing Team USA. Following the lunch, the men’s team began preparations for their first game, whereas the women’s team enjoyed a day off, which included the meal with Tucci.
Forward Caroline Harvey currently leads the U.S. Team in scoring with two goals and five assists for seven points through four games. Veteran Hilary Knight is tied for the most goals (14) and points (32) scored by an American player in Olympic Winter Games history. The U.S. Team has averaged five goals per game throughout the tournament, outscoring opponents 20-1.
