Swiss Captain Josi Eyes Nation's First Hockey Medal in 78 Years

Roman Josi has spent 15 seasons proving Swiss hockey belongs on the world's biggest stages, and now he's 78 years from making history.

The Nashville Predators captain will lead Switzerland's Olympic team in Milano Cortina 2026, just a three-hour train ride from his hometown of Bern. His mission: bring home the nation's first Olympic hockey medal since bronze in 1948.

"A medal, that's definitely a dream come true," said Josi, 35, who has become the gold standard for Swiss hockey players. "The Olympics is the biggest stage, and being able to show what we can do against the best players in the world will be huge for Swiss hockey."

Josi isn't just talking. He's already delivered on the international stage nine times at World Championships, helping Switzerland secure three silver medals over the past decade. In 2024, he captained the team and led all defensemen in scoring, earning MVP and best defenseman honors.

The timing couldn't be better. Switzerland claimed back-to-back World Championship silver medals in 2024 and 2025, building momentum with many of the same players who'll compete in Milan. That roster includes New Jersey Devils captain Nico Hischier and a core group of NHL stars who understand what it takes to compete against hockey's elite.

"When you look at the top teams and the players they have, we'll need to play as a team," Josi said. "I think that's one of our strengths. We know each other pretty well."

Why This Inspires

Josi's journey from second-round draft pick to Nashville's all-time points leader (761 in 1,005 games) shows what dedication and leadership can accomplish. He became the first and only Swiss player to win the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman in 2020.

But his impact extends beyond personal achievements. Swiss national team coach Patrick Fischer credits Josi and other NHL veterans for creating a culture where "it's always team first." That approach has transformed Switzerland from underdogs into legitimate medal contenders.

The home-crowd advantage adds another layer of excitement. With Milan just across the border, thousands of Swiss fans will pack the arena, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a home game than an Olympic tournament.

For a nation that's waited nearly eight decades for hockey glory, Josi represents more than a captain—he's the player who could finally deliver the medal that's eluded Switzerland for generations.