Leon Draisaitl has been appointed captain of Team Germany for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, marking a significant shift in leadership. This decision reflects more than just his talent; insiders describe it as a symbolic transfer of responsibility within German hockey’s hierarchy.
While Draisaitl’s status as a top NHL player makes his captaincy a natural choice, the move carries deeper meaning for German ice hockey’s future direction and identity.
Transition of Leadership from Moritz Müller to Draisaitl
Following the announcement on Monday, the leadership change was seen as a pivotal moment. Moritz Müller, a 39-year-old veteran of German hockey, had been the longstanding captain since 2018, leading Germany to Olympic silver in 2018 and a World Championship silver in 2023. With 22 seasons at the Cologne Sharks and appearances in multiple international competitions—including 12 World Championships and the 2005 World Junior Championship—Müller has been the team’s guiding figure for years.
Mark Spector, an NHL insider, highlighted the significance of this decision:
This choice isn’t as obvious it may seem. 39 YO Moritz Muller has 22 seasons with the Cologne Sharks, has played in 3 Olympics and captained Team Germany since 2018. This marks the passing of a torch in German hockey.
Draisaitl, the Edmonton Oilers star, now takes over this role. As the highest-scoring German-born player in NHL history with 1,036 points in 845 games, including 428 goals and 608 assists, he brings a wealth of experience and international acclaim. His captaincy not only ushers in a new era but coincides with his first Olympic appearance, underscoring the moment’s importance. Additionally, Draisaitl was selected as one of Germany’s flag bearers for the Opening Ceremony, joining ski jumper Katharina Schmid.
Support from Team Members Highlights Unity and Confidence
Team Germany has warmly embraced Draisaitl’s appointment. Defenseman Moritz Seider was unequivocal in his endorsement:
As he should be (the captain),
Seider said.
He’s a top-five player in the world right now. If anyone doesn’t know him, you’re doing something wrong in the hockey world.
Fellow teammate Tim Stützle emphasized Draisaitl’s wide-reaching influence beyond pure performance.
He’s a huge role model, especially in Germany, but even in Canada and the NHL,
Stützle noted.
Everybody loves him. I’m really happy for him, he really deserves it.
Seider and Stützle have also been appointed alternate captains, creating a leadership group that blends seasoned experience with emerging talent, positioning the team for a hopeful future.
Germany’s Olympic Prospects and Upcoming Challenges
Team Germany is set to begin their Olympic campaign in Group C, facing Denmark in their opening game on Thursday. With Draisaitl at the helm, the team approaches the competition with renewed optimism and determination. The leadership change symbolizes a strategic move to leverage Germany’s NHL talent on the international stage and inspire a new generation of players.
This appointment signals a promising chapter for German ice hockey, where the legacy of past leaders meets the ambitions of rising stars under Draisaitl’s guidance.
This choice isn't as obvious it may seem.
39 YO Moritz Muller has 22 seasons with the Cologne Sharks, has played in 3 Olympics and captained Team Germany since 2018.
This marks the passing of a torch in German hockey. https://t.co/0hjoz0ZBCq— Mark Spector🇨🇦🇺🇦 (@SportsnetSpec) February 9, 2026
