The Montreal Victoire and Ottawa Charge are competing in the Walter Cup final to determine the Professional Women’s Hockey League champion [1, 2].
This championship series marks the first time in the history of the Walter Cup that the final features two Canadian teams [1, 2]. The matchup highlights the growing dominance and regional rivalry of women's professional hockey within Canada.
The teams began the best-of-five series on Thursday, May 14, 2026 [3, 4]. The Montreal Victoire took an early lead in the championship race after winning Game 1 [3, 4].
Reports on the specific final score of the opening game vary between sources. One report said the Victoire won 3-1 [5], while another said there was a 3-2 victory in overtime [3].
Both franchises have advanced through the playoffs to reach this stage of the competition. The series will continue as the teams fight for the title in a format that requires three wins to secure the cup [3].
The all-Canadian final creates a unique narrative for the league, as it concentrates the championship spotlight on two cities within the same country [1, 2].
“The first time in Walter Cup history that the championship final features two Canadian teams”
The emergence of an all-Canadian final suggests a high concentration of elite talent and infrastructure within the Canadian market. By pitting Montreal against Ottawa, the league leverages a natural geographic rivalry to drive viewership and engagement, potentially signaling a shift in the competitive landscape of the Professional Women’s Hockey League.
