Victor Hedman Set for Olympic Debut After Years of Waiting

Victor Hedman, the 34-year-old defenseman renowned for his skills with the Tampa Bay Lightning, is finally poised to make his Olympic debut at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan, from February 5 to 23. This long-awaited participation comes after years of frustration, as Hedman had previously been omitted from key tournaments including the 2014 Sochi Olympics, where he was overlooked by coach Pär Mårts despite being a strong candidate.

Hedman's absence from the Olympics in 2018 and 2022 was further compounded by the NHL's decision not to send players to the tournament, leaving him without opportunities during what many consider the peak of his career. "It has been very frustrating. It feels like I have missed two opportunities, especially since I was in my prime during those years," Hedman remarked, expressing a mix of anticipation and determination regarding his Olympic chance.

The lifting of NHL restrictions on player participation marks a significant change, allowing Hedman and others to compete on this prestigious stage. The Swedish national team, which he was included in following an announcement by head coach Sam Hallam in June, finished third in the recent Four Nations tournament, but Hedman is optimistic about their potential. Despite battling a foot fracture last NHL season, he is now healthy and eager to join his teammates in pursuit of Olympic gold. With two Stanley Cup titles under his belt and recognition as the NHL’s best defenseman in 2018, Hedman is ready to add an Olympic medal to his collection.