Roman Josi Named Captain of Swiss Team for 2026 Olympics

Predators star to lead Swiss squad in Milano Cortina

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Roman Josi, captain of the Nashville Predators, has been named captain of Team Switzerland for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. This appointment underscores Josi's leadership and significant contributions to the sport, positioning him as a key figure for the Swiss team.

Why it matters

Josi's selection as captain highlights the growing trend of experienced NHL players taking on leadership roles in international hockey competitions. His presence and that of other NHL captains on the Swiss team is particularly valuable for team cohesion and quick adaptation at major tournaments like the Olympics.

The details

Josi currently holds the distinction of being the highest-scoring Swiss-born player in NHL history, with 763 points and 562 assists in 1,007 games. He ranks fourth in goals among Swiss players with 201. His 2019-20 Norris Trophy win further solidifies his standing as one of the league's top defensemen. Supporting Josi will be a strong leadership group, including alternate captains Nico Hischier (New Jersey Devils), Kevin Fiala (Los Angeles Kings), Nino Niederreiter (Winnipeg Jets), and Andrea Glauser (HC Fribourg).

  • Roman Josi has previously represented Switzerland at the 2014 Sochi Olympics and has participated in nine World Championships.
  • Team Switzerland will start their Olympic journey against France on February 12th, 2026.

The players

Roman Josi

Captain of the Nashville Predators and the highest-scoring Swiss-born player in NHL history.

Nico Hischier

Alternate captain for Team Switzerland and captain of the New Jersey Devils.

Kevin Fiala

Alternate captain for Team Switzerland and player for the Los Angeles Kings.

Nino Niederreiter

Alternate captain for Team Switzerland and player for the Winnipeg Jets.

Andrea Glauser

Alternate captain for Team Switzerland and player for HC Fribourg.

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What they’re saying

“Roman Josi is a 'face of Switzerland,' drawing comparisons to Roger Federer in terms of talent and leadership.”

— Kevin Fiala, Los Angeles Kings player (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

Team Switzerland will start their Olympic journey against France on February 12th, 2026.

The takeaway

The presence of multiple NHL captains within the Swiss team highlights a growing trend of experienced players taking on leadership roles in international hockey competitions, which is particularly valuable for team cohesion and quick adaptation at major tournaments like the Olympics.