The 2026 Winter Olympics are currently underway in Milano and Cortina, Italy, with the opening ceremony scheduled for Friday. As over 90 countries take part, more than 150 NHL players are competing in the games. Among them, Leon Draisaitl and David Pastrnak have been chosen for the distinguished role of flag-bearers for their respective nations.
Leon Draisaitl will represent Team Germany, while David Pastrnak will carry the flag for Team Czechia, according to an announcement from the NHL. This honor places them at the forefront of their country‘s delegation during the Olympic opening festivities.
Selection Process and Player Reactions
David Pastrnak was appointed flag-bearer by an Olympic committee, while Leon Draisaitl earned the role through a fan vote combined with input from Team Germany members. Both expressed deep pride in receiving the designation.
“Wow. I am extremely proud and happy. It will be a great honor for me,”
Pastrnak said regarding his selection.
“I am looking forward to having a chance to represent our country along with all other athletes. Wonderful.”
“I’m honored to be a part of that and to even be in the conversation is something that I don’t take lightly and something I don’t take for granted,”
Draisaitl shared recently.
“It’s something that would be a highlight in my career and in my life. There’s a lot of great athletes coming out of our country, and to be able to represent them, regardless whether I win or not, it’s pretty special.”
Upcoming Participation and Olympic Group Placement
Neither Draisaitl nor Pastrnak took part in the 4 Nations Face-Off, as their countries were not involved in that tournament. However, they did compete together as teammates on Team McDavid during the 2024 NHL All-Star Game. In the Olympic preliminary rounds, the two will not meet; Germany competes in Group C, while Czechia is placed in Group A.
David Pastrnak described his schedule surrounding the opening ceremony, noting the swift travel needed.
“It will be a quick trip. We are flying back to Boston right after the game and I’ll be on my way to Milan the next day,”
he said.
“I’m looking forward to it so much. I have been waiting a long time to have this opportunity to represent my country at the Olympics so I can’t wait to get started.”
Preparation Before Olympic Break
Before the Olympic pause in the NHL season, both the Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers have one remaining game. The Oilers will face the Calgary Flames, and the Bruins are scheduled to meet the Florida Panthers on Wednesday night, preparing to shift focus to the Olympic competition ahead.
