Penguins’ Rickard Rakell reflects on Olympic honor, ranking it narrowly below Stanley Cup

Rickard Rakell will represent Sweden at the 2026 Winter Olympics, marking the first Olympic appearance of his NHL career. The Pittsburgh Penguins forward earned one of Sweden’s coveted roster spots alongside teammate Erik Karlsson, turning a lifelong ambition into reality.

For Rakell, the call is not just another international assignment. It is personal. It is historic. And it sits just below the Stanley Cup in terms of prestige.The announcement answers the biggest question surrounding Rakell this season: what this opportunity means to him and how it shapes his next chapter. Sweden’s selection committee rewarded his steady production and big-game experience, giving the 31-year-old winger a stage he has long imagined.

Now, with the Olympic spotlight approaching, Rakell’s focus sharpens both in Pittsburgh and on the global stage.

Rickard Rakell's Olympic debut: why 2026 is a defining moment for the Penguins forward

Rakell did not hide his emotions when discussing the honor. "This is a dream come true for me. I'm going to say probably once in a lifetime. This is my chance. You have so many memories of previous tournaments, watching this. Apart from the Stanley Cup, it doesn't get better than this."

Those words reveal why 2026 matters so deeply. Rakell grew up watching Olympic hockey, picturing himself in Sweden’s colors.

Now he gets that chance at a time when his game feels mature and balanced.Last month, he shared similar excitement. "Obviously, super excited. It’s a dream come true for me to get the chance to play in the Olympics and represent my country. ... I always thought it was a possibility. Anything can happen. Having a good year last year and still being able to go in the 4 Nations and show what I can do there. I’m excited to go there and do my best."On the ice, Rakell has backed up the optimism. He has 24 points, including 10 goals and 14 assists, through 35 games this season. His scoring touch and responsible two-way play made him a logical choice for Sweden’s forward group.His Olympic nod comes after a turbulent summer filled with trade rumors. Rakell, Karlsson and Bryan Rust all saw their names circulate. Yet general manager Kyle Dubas kept the core intact. That decision looks wise.

Pittsburgh is outperforming expectations and pushing to end a playoff drought that dates back to 2022.For Rakell, stability in Pittsburgh and opportunity with Sweden now intersect. The Olympics offer validation. The NHL season offers unfinished business. Both matter. And for the first time, the dream of Olympic ice is no longer distant. It is waiting.