USA Hockey Announces Preliminary Roster for 2026 IIHF Men’s World Championship
USA Hockey has officially unveiled the preliminary roster for the 2026 U.S. Men’s National Team as they prepare to compete in the IIHF Men’s World Championship. The tournament, scheduled for May 15-31, will take place in Zurich and Fribourg, Switzerland.
The U.S. Enters the competition as the defending gold medalist, having secured the world championship title a year ago—their first victory in the event in 92 years. The current squad aims to maintain that momentum and secure another gold on Swiss soil.
Roster Composition and Player Profiles
The preliminary roster consists of 25 players: three goaltenders, eight defensemen, and 14 forwards. The group is characterized by a blend of youthful energy and seasoned veteran leadership, with an average age of 26, a height of 6-1, and a weight of 196 lbs.
The roster is heavily weighted with high-end NHL talent, featuring 13 players who were first or second-round NHL Draft picks. Among them are seven first-rounders: Matthew Tkachuk, James Hagens, Ryan Leonard, Matt Coronato, Oliver Moore, Ryker Lee, and Isaac Howard. The age gap on the team is significant, ranging from 19-year-old Ryker Lee to 34-year-old veteran Justin Faulk.
General Manager Brett Peterson, who also serves as the assistant general manager for the NHL’s Florida Panthers, expressed confidence in the selection. “We’ve got a good blend of players that are excited about representing our country and competing for a gold medal,” Peterson stated.
Experience and Pedigree
Team USA is leveraging a mix of Olympic and World Championship experience to anchor the squad. Four players on the preliminary list have previously represented the U.S. In the Olympics: Matthew Tkachuk (2026 gold medalist), Drew Commesso (2022), Will Borgen (2018), and Justin Faulk (2014).
seven players bring prior IIHF Men’s World Championship experience. This includes Mason Lohrei and Isaac Howard, both of whom were part of the 2025 gold medal-winning team. Other returning players include:
- Justin Faulk: Bronze medals in 2013 and 2015, and a 2012 appearance.
- Ryan Leonard: 2024 appearance.
- Drew Commesso: 2023 appearance.
- Matt Coronato: 2023 appearance.
- Sam Lafferty: 2022 appearance.
Tournament Schedule and Logistics
Before arriving in Switzerland, Team USA will conduct training in Mannheim, Germany, starting May 8. The team is scheduled to play a pre-tournament exhibition game against Germany on May 10.
The U.S. Will officially open their IIHF Men’s World Championship campaign in Zurich on May 15. They face host nation Switzerland at 8:20 p.m. Local time (2:20 p.m. ET). Fans can follow the team’s progress, as all U.S. Games in the tournament will air live on the NHL Network.
Geographic Representation
The 2026 roster draws talent from 11 different states. Minnesota leads the group with seven representatives, followed by New York, Michigan, and Wisconsin, each with three players. Other states represented include Massachusetts (2), Missouri (2), Ohio (1), California (1), Illinois (1), New Jersey (1), and Pennsylvania (1).
Key Takeaways: Team USA 2026 Preliminary Roster
- Tournament Window: May 15-31, 2026, in Zurich and Fribourg, Switzerland.
- Defending Status: U.S. Enters as the defending gold medalist.
- Roster Depth: 25 players (3G, 8D, 14F) including 13 first or second-round NHL picks.
- Key Veterans: Justin Faulk (34) and Matthew Tkachuk (2026 Olympic Gold).
- Opening Game: May 15 vs. Switzerland in Zurich.
- Broadcast Partner: NHL Network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will the 2026 IIHF Men’s World Championship be held?
The tournament will be hosted in Zurich and Fribourg, Switzerland.
Who is the General Manager for the 2026 U.S. Men’s National Team?
Brett Peterson is the general manager for the team.
When does Team USA play its first game?
Team USA opens play on May 15 against Switzerland in Zurich.