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Finland's Mikko Lehtonen Leads Olympic Hockey Gold Defense
Veteran defenseman aims to repeat 2022 gold medal triumph with Finnish national team
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Mikko Lehtonen, a Finnish defenseman who won Olympic gold with his national team in 2022, is leading Finland's quest to defend their title at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Lehtonen, who briefly played in the NHL, was the first Finnish player to arrive at the Olympics and got extra practice time on the ice. He was also honored as the Finnish flag bearer during the Opening Ceremonies, an experience he called "amazing." Finland begins their title defense against Slovakia on Wednesday.
Why it matters
Lehtonen's experience from the 2022 Olympics, where NHL players did not participate, could prove invaluable as Finland aims to repeat as gold medalists. The Finnish national team will be relying on Lehtonen's veteran leadership and previous Olympic success to guide them through the tournament.
The details
Lehtonen, who played in Russia prior to the 2022 Olympics, was able to suit up for Finland's gold medal-winning team two years ago. Now, he is back to lead Finland's title defense, having been the first player from the team to arrive at the 2026 Olympics. Lehtonen got extra practice time on the ice by himself before his NHL-based teammates joined the squad.
- Lehtonen won Olympic gold with Finland in 2022.
- Lehtonen was the first Finnish player to arrive at the 2026 Olympics.
- Finland begins their title defense against Slovakia on Wednesday.
The players
Mikko Lehtonen
A Finnish defenseman who won Olympic gold with the Finnish national team in 2022 and is now leading their title defense at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Finland
The reigning Olympic gold medalist in men's hockey, Finland is aiming to defend their title at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
What they’re saying
“It was cool. An amazing experience. I think that's one of the biggest you can get as an athlete, carrying your flag in an Olympic ceremony.”
— Mikko Lehtonen (National Post)
“Lots of reps.”
— Mikko Lehtonen (Sporting News)
What’s next
Finland begins their title defense against Slovakia on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.
The takeaway
Mikko Lehtonen's experience from leading Finland to Olympic gold in 2022 makes him a valuable veteran presence as the Finnish national team aims to defend their title at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Lehtonen's leadership and previous Olympic success could be the key to Finland repeating as champions.
