Former Lightning Player Modin Reflects on Winning Olympic Gold 20 Years Ago

Modin shares his experience of winning gold for Sweden at the 2006 Turin Olympics, as nine current Lightning players prepare to compete in the 2026 Milano Cortina Games.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Freddy Modin, a former Tampa Bay Lightning player, reflects on winning the gold medal for Sweden at the 2006 Turin Olympics, 20 years ago. Modin discusses the unique challenges of competing in the Olympics compared to the NHL, the mystique of playing for the Swedish national team, and the importance of enjoying the Olympic experience off the ice, including indulging in Italian cuisine. With nine current Lightning players set to compete in the 2026 Milano Cortina Games, Modin's insights provide valuable perspective on what they can expect.

Why it matters

Modin's gold medal victory in 2006 remains the last time a Tampa Bay Lightning player has won Olympic gold. The upcoming 2026 Milano Cortina Games present an opportunity for current Lightning players to follow in Modin's footsteps and bring home the gold, further cementing the team's legacy on the international stage.

The details

Modin played a key role in Sweden's gold medal run in 2006, scoring two goals and three points in eight games, including the game-opening goal in the 7-3 semifinal win over the Czech Republic. He emphasized the unique challenges of the Olympic tournament, where one loss can end a team's chances, and players must quickly adapt to different roles and systems compared to the NHL. Modin also highlighted the importance of enjoying the Olympic experience off the ice, such as exploring Italy and indulging in the local cuisine.

  • Modin won the gold medal for Sweden at the 2006 Turin Olympics, which took place less than 100 miles away from Milan.
  • The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics will begin on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Freddy Modin

A former Tampa Bay Lightning player who won the gold medal for Sweden at the 2006 Turin Olympics.

Victor Hedman

A current Tampa Bay Lightning player who is expected to compete for Team Sweden in the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics.

Pontus Holmberg

A current Tampa Bay Lightning player who is expected to compete for Team Sweden in the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“All these tournaments, we always thought we had a chance. But it's a different type of setup compared to what we're used to here in the NHL. Whether it's the World Championships, the Olympics, World Cups, whatever it is, they're shorter tournaments and you have to make it into the playoff rounds.”

— Freddy Modin, Former Tampa Bay Lightning Player (nhl.com)

“The only time we had hockey on TV was when Team Sweden was playing some type of tournament. When I grew up, that's when we were able to watch live hockey. With that, there's this special feeling of growing up and being able to eventually play for that team that as a kid you couldn't take your eyes off on the TV wearing the Tre Kronor (Three Crowns).”

— Freddy Modin, Former Tampa Bay Lightning Player (nhl.com)

“Everything happens so fast, and once the games start there's not much time off. You might have a day or so in between games, and you want to try to find time to see some other events, meet some of the other competitors and hang out in the village. That Olympic village is a really cool place to hang out.”

— Freddy Modin, Former Tampa Bay Lightning Player (nhl.com)

What’s next

The nine current Tampa Bay Lightning players competing in the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics will look to follow in Freddy Modin's footsteps and bring home the gold medal for their respective countries.

The takeaway

Freddy Modin's experience winning Olympic gold for Sweden in 2006 provides valuable insight for the current generation of Tampa Bay Lightning players as they prepare to compete on the international stage. Modin's reflections on the unique challenges and rewards of the Olympic tournament, as well as the importance of embracing the overall Olympic experience, will undoubtedly inspire the Lightning players to strive for their own gold medal moment.