As the puck drop nears for the 2026 World Junior Championship (WJC), Team Switzerland has finalized its roster, aiming to improve upon last year's performance. With a mix of returning players and fresh talent, the Swiss are preparing for a challenging tournament.
Forwards Switzerland's forward lineup includes Mike Aeschlimann, Robin Antenen, Nathan Borradori, Nolan Cattin, Joel Grossniklaus, Kevin Haas, Cyrill Henry, Kimi Körbler, Paul Mottard, Jonah Neuenschwander, Jamiro Reber, Lars Steiner, Beni Waidacher, and Loris Wey. The team will miss key players from last year's tournament, including Leo Braillard, Kimo Gruber, Andro Kaderli and Simon Meier. This creates an opportunity for players like Jamiro Reber and Robin Antenen, who contributed last season, to take on leadership roles. Kevin Haas and Nathan Borradori are also players to watch, with the potential to make a name for themselves. Jonah Neuenschwander, born in 2009, is a returning forward who played three games in last year's tournament.
Defensemen The defensive unit features Niklas Blessing, Mischa Geisser, Ludvig Johnson, Nik Lehmann, Gian Meier, Leon Muggli, Basile Sansonnens, and Daniil Ustinkov. Ludvig Johnson, Leon Muggli, and Basile Sansonnens bring valuable experience from last year's team. According to head coach Jan Cadieux, the strength of the Swiss team lies in its defense, with several players regularly competing in the National League. Leon Muggli is also the team captain.
Goaltenders The final roster includes goalies Christian Kirsch and Elijah Neuenschwander. Christian Kirsch was drafted by the San Jose Sharks and Elijah Neuenschwander was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks. Both goalies have experience and could be key players for Switzerland.
Tournament Outlook Switzerland faces a tough road in the tournament, competing in the same group as the USA, Sweden, Germany, and Slovakia. The team will need to be united and play with passion and team spirit. The team is coached by Jan Cadieux. Despite the challenges, Switzerland has the potential to be an upstart contestant in this year's tournament.
The Swiss team will gather in Kloten for training camp before heading to Minnesota for pre-tournament games against the University of Minnesota-Mankato Mavericks, Denmark, and Sweden. The final roster was announced on Christmas Eve.
With a blend of experienced players and promising young talent, Team Switzerland is ready to compete at the 2026 World Junior Championship.
