Sweden just announced its roster for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The team aims to snag its first gold medal since 2006. This lineup features some familiar faces, as many players were part of the recent 4 Nations Face-Off.
At forward, we see new additions like Gabriel Landeskog of the Colorado Avalanche, Pontus Holmberg from the Tampa Bay Lightning, and Alexander Wennberg of the San Jose Sharks. Notably absent are Viktor Arvidsson from the Boston Bruins and Gustav Nyquist of the Winnipeg Jets.
Coach Sam Hallam praised Holmberg and Wennberg for their skills. “They are tactically smart and versatile,” he said. He highlighted Holmberg’s physical style and Wennberg’s solid decision-making during last year’s World Championship in Stockholm.
On defense, Philip Broberg from the St. Louis Blues and Oliver Ekman-Larsson of the Toronto Maple Leafs are set to join the team. Meanwhile, Mattias Ekholm of the Edmonton Oilers will not return after the 4 Nations.
Victor Hedman, the Lightning’s defenseman, was named to the preliminary roster but is recovering from elbow surgery. Hallam mentioned the importance of keeping an eye on him as he works to return. “He’s vital for our strategy,” Hallam noted.
In goal, Jesper Wallstedt from the Minnesota Wild is part of the team, alongside Filip Gustavsson. Linus Ullmark from the Ottawa Senators did not make the cut this time. Hallam expressed confidence in Wallstedt, saying, “He’s progressed quickly and brings a great dynamic with Gustavsson.”
This marks the first time NHL players have represented Sweden in the Olympics since 2014, when they took silver in Sochi. Erik Karlsson, a defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins, shared his excitement: “It’s a huge honor and I’ve been looking forward to it.”
The tournament will see all 12 teams play three preliminary games. Sweden is in Group B and will kick off their matches against Team Italy on February 11. They’ll continue against Team Finland on February 13 and Team Slovakia on February 14. The three group winners and the top second-place team will advance directly to the quarterfinals, with the gold medal game scheduled for February 22.
As Team Sweden prepares for the thrilling competition ahead, the blend of experienced and emerging players has fans hopeful. The excitement is palpable, with social media buzzing about the potential of this year’s squad.
For more information on the Olympics and team updates, check the International Olympic Committee’s official website.
