Alexandre Texier has been named to France's preliminary Olympic roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, making him the first St. Louis Blues player to be confirmed for the prestigious international tournament. The announcement highlights the return of NHL players to the Olympics after a 12-year absence, marking a significant moment for both the players and the sport.

Texier, a 25-year-old forward, is among the first six players named to the French national team. This initial selection was made in cooperation with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), the National Hockey League (NHL), the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA), and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Being among the first players selected speaks volumes about the role he is expected to play for France in the upcoming games.

Acquired by the Blues in the summer of 2024 from the Columbus Blue Jackets, Texier's first season in St. Louis was somewhat inconsistent. In 31 regular-season games, he recorded 11 points, with six goals and five assists. However, all six of his goals came in games that the Blues won, demonstrating his knack for contributing to victories. In the 2023-24 season with Columbus, Texier had a career-high 30 points (12 goals, 18 assists) in 78 games. Despite facing challenges with injuries, illnesses, and healthy scratches in the past season, his selection for the Olympic team underscores his potential and the value he brings to the ice.

Texier's international experience is extensive. He has represented France at the World Championships five times and participated in Olympic qualifiers twice. In a qualifying tournament in Riga, he scored a hat trick in a 5-1 win over Slovenia, solidifying his place on the national team. His versatility allows him to play both as a center and on either wing, providing flexibility for the French team's strategy.

The 2026 Winter Olympics mark the return of NHL players to the competition for the first time since 2014 in Sochi. This is a major event for the sport. The NHL is committed to international play and intends to alternate the Olympics every two years with the World Cup of Hockey.

While Texier is currently the only confirmed Blues player on an Olympic roster, there are other potential candidates. Colton Parayko and Jordan Binnington are strong possibilities for Team Canada, while Jimmy Snuggerud could represent Team USA. Dalibor Dvorsky is another player with a chance to play for Slovakia, and Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas could also vie for spots on the stacked Canadian roster. However, Pavel Buchnevich will not be able to participate, as Russia has been excluded from the event.