Ekman-Larsson Named Sweden Captain for 2026 World Championship

Sweden have named Oliver Ekman-Larsson as captain for the 2026 IIHF World Championship. It is the third time the Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman will lead Tre Kronor at the tournament. Mattias Ekholm and Lucas Raymond will serve as alternate captains.

"I feel honored to have the chance to captain Tre Kronor for a third time in my career," Ekman-Larsson said. "We have already started building a strong team feel, and we will keep building it every day of this championship."

The 35-year-old veteran brings more than a decade of NHL experience and has worn the C for Sweden at previous international tournaments. Ekholm of the Edmonton Oilers and Raymond of the Detroit Red Wings complete a leadership trio in fresh NHL form.

Sweden open their tournament on Friday, May 15 against Canada at 16:20 CET at BCF Arena in Fribourg, the headline matchup of opening day in Group B.