Sidney Crosby, the renowned captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, will play for Team Canada in the 2025 IIHF World Championship, which is a huge step forward for international hockey. This is his third time participating in the tournament overall and his first since leading Canada to gold in 2015. 

A Storied International Career

Crosby’s remarkable international career gains a new chapter with his comeback to the World Championship. As a member of the elite “Triple Gold Club,” he has won the IIHF World Championship (2015), the Olympic Games (2010), and the Stanley Cup (2009), 2016, and 2017. He captained the squad to gold at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February 2025, and his leadership was crucial to Canada’s recent victory.  

Recent Performance and Motivation

Crosby had a stellar season with 91 points (33 goals) in 78 games, but his Penguins missed out on the NHL playoffs. He has had the chance to don the national jersey again because of his absence from postseason play. With an average of more than 20 minutes of ice time each game—the most of any Penguins forward—Crosby, 37, is still performing at an elite level. 

Team Canada’s Outlook

Games at the 2025 IIHF World Championship will be held in Stockholm, Sweden, and Herning, Denmark, from May 9 to May 25. On May 10, Canada will launch their campaign against Slovenia. Macklin Celebrini, Bo Horvat, and Nathan MacKinnon are among the roster’s up-and-coming players as well as seasoned veterans.

As the general manager of Team Canada, Kyle Dubas, president of hockey operations for the Penguins, will strengthen the Canadian contingent and contribute a wealth of experience to the management team. 

Legacy and Future Implications

In addition to improving Team Canada’s chances of winning the competition, Crosby’s involvement is evidence of his unwavering dedication to the game and his nation. It is expected that his presence will give teammates and supporters alike tremendous guidance and inspiration.

Crosby’s comeback represents a link between Canada’s illustrious history and its bright future on the international stage as the hockey community looks to the forthcoming tournament.