The U.S. and Canada men’s ice hockey teams, set to play in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament final on Thursday night, have come to represent more than just their athletic skill. On both sides of the border, the rivalry in the rink has been seen by some as an extension of the political tensions between the once-friendly allies.

Feb. 15, the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off hockey game between the U.S. and Canada started with three fights after crowds booed the U.S. national anthem. Once the physical altercations subsided, the U.S. team emerged victorious over the Canadians in the game itself,

Canada and the United States, whose inaugural fight-filled showdown set off emotional and political fireworks, meet for a rematch in Thursday's NHL Four Nations Face-Off tournament final.