Switzerland’s 2026 Winter Olympics roster is here, and it’s a lineup that could make history. For the first time since 1948, the Swiss are seriously eyeing an Olympic medal, and this team might just be the one to deliver. Led by NHL stars like Nashville Predators defenseman Roman Josi and New Jersey Devils forward Nico Hischier, Switzerland is bringing its A-game to Milano Cortina. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a team that hasn’t medaled in over seven decades really break the drought this time around? Let’s dive in.
Announced on Wednesday, the roster marks the return of NHL players to the Swiss Olympic team for the first time since 2014. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising talents, Switzerland is poised to make waves in Group A, where they’ll face off against France, Canada, and Czechia in the preliminary rounds. The tournament format is straightforward: 12 teams, three group games each, with the top three group winners and the best second-place team advancing directly to the quarterfinals. The remaining eight teams will battle it out in single-elimination games for the last four spots. The gold medal game is set for February 22—mark your calendars!
And this is the part most people miss: Switzerland’s forward lineup is stacked with players who’ve proven themselves on the international stage. Nico Hischier and Timo Meier are coming off strong starts with the Devils, while Nino Niederreiter and Kevin Fiala bring consistency and clutch performances. Sven Andrighetto, Denis Malgin, and Christoph Bertschy add NHL experience, having faced off against powerhouse teams like Canada and the U.S. But the real question is: Can this forward group outshine their opponents in a tournament where every goal counts?
On defense, Roman Josi’s return is a game-changer. His leadership and skill are undeniable, but he’s not alone. J.J. Moser and Jonas Siegenthaler, both NHL regulars, will bolster the blue line. Dean Kukan, who’s thrived in the National League after his stint with the Columbus Blue Jackets, adds depth. Yet, here’s a thought-provoking angle: With such a strong defensive core, could Switzerland’s strategy lean too heavily on defense, potentially limiting their offensive firepower?
In goal, the starting position is still up in the air. Akira Schmid and Reto Berra bring NHL experience, but Leonardo Genoni is the wildcard. His stellar performances at the World Championships—including a silver medal and MVP honors in 2025—make him a strong contender. But who will get the nod? Is NHL experience enough, or will Genoni’s international dominance tip the scales?
Here’s the full roster, broken down by position:
FORWARDS (14):
Sven Andrighetto (Zurich), Christoph Bertschy (Fribourg), Kevin Fiala (Los Angeles Kings), Nico Hischier (New Jersey Devils), Ken Jager (Lausanne), Simon Knak (Davos), Philipp Kurashev (San Jose Sharks), Denis Malgin (Zurich), Timo Meier (New Jersey Devils), Nino Niederreiter (Winnipeg Jets), Damien Riat (Lausanne), Sandro Schmid (Fribourg), Pius Suter (St. Louis Blues), Calvin Thurkauf (Lugano).
DEFENSEMEN (8):
Tim Berni (Genève), Michael Fora (Davos), Andrea Glauser (Fribourg), Roman Josi (Nashville Predators), Dean Kukan (Zurich), Christian Marti (Zurich), J.J. Moser (Tampa Bay Lightning), Jonas Siegenthaler (New Jersey Devils).
GOALIES (3):
Reto Berra (Fribourg), Leonardo Genoni (Zug), Akira Schmid (Vegas Golden Knights).
As Switzerland gears up for their opener against France on February 12, the stakes have never been higher. Will this be the year they finally climb the Olympic podium? Or will they fall just short? Let us know what you think in the comments—do you believe this Swiss team has what it takes to bring home a medal? The debate is open!
