Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl has earned a prestigious honor just days before his Olympic debut. The German Olympic committee announced Wednesday that Draisaitl will carry the flag for Germany at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony alongside ski jumper Katharina Schmid.[1][2] This rare distinction for a first-time Olympian came after Draisaitl triumphed in both an internal athlete poll and a massive public vote involving over 135,000 participants.[3]
The ceremony takes place Friday, February 6, in Milan, marking the start of the NHL’s return to the Winter Olympics since 2014.[4] Draisaitl, a Cologne native, will represent his country in the main Milan event, while Schmid carries the flag in Predazzo. This dual-location parade underscores the unique setup across Milan, Predazzo, Livigno, and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
How the voting process unfolded
Germany’s flag bearer selection combined athlete input and fan enthusiasm. The German Olympic committee shortlisted candidates based on sporting success and role model qualities, pitting Draisaitl against elite competitors.[3]
Fans voted online since late January, with votes closing before the announcement. Over 135,000 participated, a testament to hockey’s rising profile in Germany.[1] Draisaitl’s nomination sparked campaigns from Oilers fans and German supporters alike.
The process has run since 2016, splitting votes 50-50 between athletes and public. This year’s male finalists included luger Tobias Wendl and Nordic combined skier Johannes Rydzek.
Draisaitl expressed humility early on. “I’m honored to be a part of that and to even be in the conversation is something that I don’t take lightly,” he said before the win.[5]
Winning both polls solidified his status as a unifying figure across sports.
Draisaitl’s path from junior hockey to Olympic icon
Twelve years ago, Draisaitl was an 18-year-old in Canadian junior leagues when NHL stars last competed at Sochi 2014. Drafted by Edmonton that year, he has since become one of the league’s elite.
His 2019-20 MVP season saw him lead the NHL with 110 points in a shortened campaign. Last season, he topped goal-scoring charts en route to Edmonton’s second straight Stanley Cup Final with Connor McDavid.
- Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP, 2020)
- Art Ross Trophy (points leader)
- Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy (goals leader)
- Ted Lindsay Award (most outstanding player)
These accolades highlight his dominance. For Germany, he’s the centerpiece of a rising hockey program.
Draisaitl has donned the German jersey at five world championships, a World Cup, and world juniors. His Olympic debut elevates Team Germany’s underdog hopes.
Tough competition and selection criteria
Draisaitl faced formidable rivals. Tobias Wendl boasts six Olympic golds in luge since 2014, undefeated in events entered. Johannes Rydzek enters his fifth Games with two golds from 2018.
The committee emphasized success and fairness. Schmid, entering her fourth Olympics with silvers in 2018 and 2022, complemented Draisaitl perfectly.
This cross-sport victory underscores Draisaitl’s broad appeal. Hockey’s global growth helped sway voters.
Other nations honored NHLers too. Boston’s David Pastrňák shares Czech duties with biathlete Lucie Charvátová.[3]
Germany’s process rewarded popularity alongside medals.
What this means for German hockey and the Olympics
NHL participation boosts visibility. Draisaitl leads Germany’s roster, blending NHL stars with domestic talent.[2]
As flag bearer, he symbolizes progress. “We have amazing athletes in our country,” Draisaitl noted.[5]
Expect intense matchups, potentially against McDavid’s Canada. Germany eyes upsets.
Fans can follow via ESPN’s Olympics coverage or NHL.com updates.
This honor cements Draisaitl’s legacy beyond the ice.
Eyes on Milano Cortina 2026
Multiple venues add spectacle to Friday’s parade. Unity across sites amplifies the moment.
Draisaitl’s role spotlights NHL-Olympics synergy. After pausing for 2018 and 2022, stars return.
Germany’s hockey team gains momentum. Draisaitl’s leadership could spark medals.
The Games run through February 22, blending tradition and innovation.
Draisaitl’s flag-bearing turn inspires young Germans. His story—from junior ranks to this stage—embodies perseverance.
As the ceremony nears, excitement builds for hockey’s Olympic spotlight. Draisaitl’s honor signals big things ahead for Team Germany, blending national pride with world-class talent. Whether chasing gold or carrying the flag, his presence elevates the Milano Cortina Games.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.