laura fortino

Laura Fortino: From Canadian Gold to Italian Ice – A New Chapter in Olympic Hockey

In the world of women's ice hockey, few stories resonate with as much heart and cultural significance as Laura Fortino’s. A decorated Olympian with Team Canada, Fortino has taken a remarkable path that has led her back to the Olympic stage—but this time, wearing a different flag. As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, Fortino stands at the center of a fascinating evolution in international hockey: the rise of a competitive Italian squad powered by Canadian talent and heritage.

This article explores Laura Fortino’s journey, the historic success of the Italian women’s national team, and what this means for the future of the sport.

A Historic Victory: Italy Breaks Through

The 2026 Winter Olympics are still on the horizon, but the narrative surrounding the Italian women's hockey team has already reached a fever pitch. In a stunning display of grit and skill, Italy secured a spot in the women's quarterfinals for the first time in Olympic history. This achievement is not just a win for Italy; it is a testament to the cross-border collaboration that defines modern international sports.

According to reports from National Post and Sportsnet, Italy defeated Japan 3-2 in a thrilling match at the Rho Arena. The victory was historic, marking the first time the Italian team has advanced to the knockout stage of the Olympics. The team's roster is "speckled red and white," a nod to the significant number of Canadian-born players who have chosen to represent Italy.

The Goalie and the Defender

At the heart of this victory were two key figures with Canadian roots. Gabriella Durante, an Italian-Canadian goaltender from Calgary, stood tall under pressure, turning aside 27 shots. Her performance was instrumental in securing the win.

Sharing the spotlight is Laura Fortino. As reported by CBC, the team's success is "Canada's too," highlighting the deep connections many of these players have to the Canadian hockey system. Fortino, a gold medalist with Canada in 2014, brings a level of experience and poise that is invaluable to a team making its mark on the world stage.

Laura Fortino’s Journey: A Third Olympic Appearance

Laura Fortino’s story is one of evolution. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, she grew up playing hockey alongside her brothers, a path that led her to the pinnacle of the sport with Team Canada. However, her journey took a unique turn in 2023 when she moved to Italy to continue her career and connect with her heritage.

From Canada to Italy

Fortino’s transition to Italian hockey began with stints at Eagles Bolzano and Neumarkt-Egna before settling at Real Torino HC Femminile. Her decision to represent Italy was driven by a desire to be part of something new and to help build a legacy.

As noted in reports from Cornell University, where Fortino played collegiately and was inducted into the Hall of Fame, her selection for the 2026 Olympic roster marks her third appearance on the Olympic stage, but her first with Team Italy. This shift is significant. It represents a growing trend where established North American players seek opportunities to grow the game in emerging hockey nations.

The "Bellissimo" Hybrid

The Italian team has been described as "bellissimo"—beautiful not just in play, but in the composition of the roster. It is a hybrid team, blending the structured, disciplined play of Italian club hockey with the aggressive, high-tempo style typical of Canadian training.

Daniele Sauvageau, the team's Canadian general manager, has been instrumental in orchestrating this blend. His vision, combined with the on-ice leadership of veterans like Fortino, has created a cohesive unit that defies expectations.

Contextual Background: The Evolution of Italian Hockey

To understand the significance of Laura Fortino’s role, one must look at the broader context of women's hockey in Italy. Historically, Italy has been a secondary player in a sport dominated by Canada, the United States, and Finland. However, recent years have seen a concerted effort to elevate the program.

A Cultural Shift

The inclusion of Canadian-Italian players is not merely a recruitment strategy; it is a cultural bridge. These players often hold dual citizenship and have deep familial ties to Italy. For them, representing Italy is a way to honor their ancestry while competing at the highest level.

This approach mirrors similar trends in other sports and countries, where diaspora athletes strengthen national teams. However, in hockey, the impact is particularly pronounced because of the sport's technical demands. The infusion of Canadian coaching and playing styles has accelerated Italy's development curve.

The Fortino Influence

Laura Fortino brings more than just defensive skill to the team. As a former captain at the professional level and a seasoned international player, she serves as a mentor. Her presence helps stabilize the defensive corps and provides a blueprint for younger Italian players aspiring to reach the Olympic level.

According to supplementary research, Fortino is not just playing; she is actively "shaping the future of Italian women's ice hockey." Her involvement suggests a long-term commitment that extends beyond the 2026 games.

Immediate Effects: Impact on the Sport and Players

The immediate impact of Italy’s success and Fortino’s participation is multifaceted.

For the Players

For Fortino, this chapter is a personal homecoming. Having celebrated a gold medal with Canada in 2014, she now faces the unique pressure of being a veteran leader on a team writing its own history. The emotional weight of representing the country of her roots adds a poignant layer to her performance.

For the Canadian Hockey Community

For Canadians, the story is bittersweet. Seeing former stars like Fortino and Durante play for another country highlights the depth of Canadian hockey talent. However, it also underscores the limited spots available on Team Canada. Many elite players look abroad to continue their Olympic dreams, contributing to the globalization of the sport.

Regulatory and Social Implications

The success of the Italian team challenges the traditional power structure of women's hockey. It proves that with the right infrastructure and strategic recruitment, nations can rapidly improve their competitiveness. This could lead to a more diverse and exciting Olympic tournament, moving away from predictable outcomes.

Future Outlook: Milan Cortina 2026 and Beyond

As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo draw closer, the expectations for the Italian team have shifted. They are no longer just happy to participate; they are aiming to compete.

Strategic Implications

The "Canadian-Italian" model has proven effective. It is likely that other nations will adopt similar strategies, seeking out dual-heritage athletes to bolster their rosters. This could lead to a more fluid international hockey landscape, where national identity in sports becomes increasingly complex.

For Laura Fortino, the future involves leveraging her experience to guide Italy through the knockout stages. While the path to a medal remains steep, the team's chemistry and defensive resilience—anchored by Fortino—make them a dangerous opponent.

Risks and Challenges

However, there are challenges. Building a team around imports can sometimes hinder the development of domestic talent if not managed carefully. The Italian federation must ensure that the influx of Canadian players serves as a catalyst for local growth rather than a replacement for it.

Despite these challenges, the momentum is positive. The excitement generated by the team's historic run is palpable, drawing new fans to the sport in Italy and inspiring a new generation of players.

Conclusion: A Legacy Redefined

Laura Fortino’s transition from Canadian hero to Italian pioneer is a compelling narrative of identity, sport, and evolution. Her story, alongside the rise of the Italian women's hockey team, represents a significant moment in Olympic history.

As fans in Canada and Italy watch the 2026 Winter Olympics, they will see a player who has mastered the art of defense and leadership. They will see a team that defied the doubters. And they will see a sport that is becoming truly global.

Whether Italy advances further or not, the impact of this team and players like Laura Fortino will be felt for years to come. It is a "bellissimo" story of hockey unchained by borders, driven by passion, and defined by the pursuit of excellence.