Excitement for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games
The excitement is palpable for NHL players as the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy, approach, marking the league’s long-awaited return to the Olympics since 2014. Among the notable players set to represent their countries are seasoned veterans like Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Erik Karlsson, who may be heading into the final Olympic appearance of their storied careers. Conversely, younger athletes are looking forward to their inaugural Olympic experiences, while many seasoned players still have never had the opportunity despite lengthy NHL journeys. Rickard Rakell, a forward for the Penguins, falls into this latter category.
Rakell’s Olympic Aspirations
Recently named to Team Sweden for the Olympic Games, Rakell feels like he is finally achieving a long-held aspiration. His 2026 Olympic appearance will follow a successful stint in February at the 4 Nations Tournament and a trip to Stockholm for the NHL Global Series, despite suffering an injury. Rakell expressed his feelings about this significant milestone:
“It’s all of my dreams coming true in hockey in one year. Representing Sweden in the 4 Nations tournament was an incredible experience, and now getting to play in the Olympics is beyond special for me. I want to savor every moment and strive for a gold medal.”
Significance of the Olympic Stage
The inclusion of Rakell, alongside Erik Karlsson on Sweden’s Olympic roster, is a significant moment for both players, who have devoted years to the NHL without experiencing the Olympic stage. At just 20 during the 2014 Games in Sochi, Rakell was still finding his footing between the NHL and AHL, while a generation of players have since matured without sampling Olympic competition. Now, they are heading into this event together, filled with anticipation.
Rakell shared his enthusiasm about teaming up with familiar faces on the national squad, saying:
“It’s thrilling to join forces with these guys. We have such excitement to play together and see what we can achieve as a unit.”
International Competition and Player Momentum
The NHL’s dedication to international competition has revitalized interest in such events, with the recent success of the 4 Nations Tournament capturing fans’ attention and drawing 16.1 million viewers for its finale—marking a record for non-NFL events on ESPN+. Rakell emphasized the importance of maintaining an international presence for hockey as it not only enhances viewership but also creates unparalleled experiences for the players themselves. He articulated:
“While the Olympics may impact our regular season scheduling, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I genuinely enjoy playing, so I welcome the challenge.”
Mid-season tournaments like the 4 Nations and the Olympics can be beneficial for players, as they are already in form. Rakell believes that these events can either help players sustain their momentum or provide a refreshing change if they are struggling. “If you’re on a roll, you want to keep that momentum going. If things aren’t going well, it can be beneficial to reset your mindset in a different environment.”
Team Dynamics and Family Support
Communication with teammates is critical in preparation for the Olympics, and Rakell has been proactive in discussing strategies and expectations with his compatriots ahead of the tournament.
Although Karlsson’s status is uncertain due to a lower-body injury, the possibility of playing alongside his Penguins teammate excites Rakell. The two have formed a close friendship during their time together in Pittsburgh, and Rakell noted the competitive spirit they share, stating:
“We both have the drive to win, and it would be something special to do that together.”
As Rakell gears up for this monumental event, the support from his family amplifies the experience. His loved ones, including his wife Emmeli, their children, and his parents, are heading to Milan to witness Rakell fulfill his lifelong dream on one of the grandest stages in sports. He reflected on this added support, saying:
“It’s a unique chance that I want to share with those who have supported me throughout my journey. It truly means everything.”
