TORONTO – Canadian hockey fans will be able to grab a cold beer with their morning coffee this Sunday as provinces across the country permit bars to serve alcohol hours ahead of schedule for the Olympic men’s hockey championship game against the United States.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford authorized licensed venues in Canada’s largest province to start pouring drinks at 6 AM Eastern Time on Sunday, more than two hours before the championship match begins at Milan’s Santagiulia arena. The game features rosters filled with National Hockey League stars from both countries.
“The entire country will be watching on Sunday morning as our men’s hockey team plays for Olympic gold,” Ford posted on social media when he announced the early alcohol sales decision. “Let’s all come together, support local businesses and cheer on Team Canada!”
British Columbia Premier David Eby has implemented similar measures on the west coast, allowing establishments there to serve drinks to eager hockey supporters before typical morning hours.
The championship contest will be the first Olympic men’s hockey final between these neighboring countries since the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games.
Canada claimed victory in that 2010 championship on Sidney Crosby’s overtime goal and went on to repeat as champions at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, which was the most recent Winter Games to include NHL talent.
Sunday’s final gives Canada an opportunity to solidify their dominance and capture their 10th Olympic men’s hockey gold medal in a nation where hockey holds cultural significance that transcends typical sports fandom and approaches spiritual devotion.
