Japan's women's ice hockey team, Smile Japan, was eliminated early from the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics. This marks a setback from their strong performance in Beijing four years ago, with coach and players noting the rapid growth of European teams. The focus now turns to how Japan can bridge the gap.
When women's ice hockey debuted at the 1998 Nagano Olympics, Smile Japan was outclassed. Since then, the team's results have improved slowly but steadily.
That progress peaked at the Beijing Games four years ago, where Japan defeated Sweden and Czechia to secure a sixth-place finish. Viewed through that lens, the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics represent a significant setback, with an early end to their campaign.
Coach Yuji Iizuka and his players have pointed out that European teams have advanced leaps and bounds since Beijing. This growth has widened the gap for Japan. Players like Akane Shiga and Akane Hosoyamada are part of efforts to address these challenges.
Looking ahead, Smile Japan must focus on closing the divide through enhanced training and tactics. Replicating Beijing's success will require a long-term commitment to improvement.