Canadian Hockey Team’s Captain ‘Sorry’ for Keeping Helmet on During Russian Anthem After 6-0 Blowout

Canadian Juniors captain Barrett Hayton has issued an apology for failing to remove his helmet during Saturday’s 6-0 loss against Russia, saying he was disoriented by his team’s loss.

“I’m sorry for leaving my helmet on for the Russian anthem following today’s game and I apologize to the Russian team and its fans. As a leader of this team, I was trying to process the game and evaluate how we can regroup. I was lost in the moment", Hayton explained in a statement

tweeted by Hockey Canada.

The team captain stressed that he meant no disrespect, adding that his “mistake should not detract from [Russia’s] win".

Hockey Canada also apologised, expressing its “tremendous respect for the Russian Ice Hockey Federation, its players, coaches, management and fans".

After the game and during the anthem ceremony, Russian players complained that Hayton did not remove his helmet as is customary, and then refused to shake hands during the handshake lineup.

Online, fans were divided over the significance of the incident, with some claiming it was a case of much ado about nothing, while others argued that Russia had a legitimate beef.

His teammates should have helped him have clarity in the moment. It is on all of them, including the coaching staff.

— Spencer Beier (@BirchBumBingo) 29 декабря 2019 г.

It amazes me that we expect more of a 19 year old hockey player than we do of our prime minister

— robert jamont (@Shark_Auctions) 29 декабря 2019 г.

It would be nicer if he was just honest about being sore af he got spanked by Russia.

— Jared McKenzie (@JaredMcKenzie_) 29 декабря 2019 г.

Worst Loss Ever

Canada suffered its biggest ever defeat against a Russian team on Saturday, failing to score any goals as Russia racked up six goals during the first and second periods of the game. The blowout was Canada’s worst-ever performance against Russia or the USSR, outdoing the 1989 7:2 loss by Canada’s juniors to the Soviets.

The Russian Juniors defeated Canada after losing to the Czechs 4-3 on Thursday. The team will face off against the United States Sunday. Canada thrashed the US 6-4 in its first game Thursday, and now moves on to face the Czech Republic. Playoffs will begin in the New Year.