At a Glance
- Miro Heiskanen and Mikko Rantanen named to Finland’s 2026 Winter Olympics roster.
- Other Stars selected: Jake Oettinger (USA) and Thomas Harley (Canada).
- Concerns over ice-facility readiness could affect NHL players.
- Why it matters: Fans see their Stars compete on the world stage and face familiar NHL teammates.
Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen and winger Mikko Rantanen have earned spots on Finland’s 2026 Winter Olympics team, joining teammates Jake Oettinger and Thomas Harley. The announcement comes amid growing excitement and lingering facility concerns.
Stars Set for 2026 Winter Olympics
The 25-man roster was announced Friday, adding Heiskanen, Rantanen, Esa Lindell and Roope Hintz for Finland, while Oettinger (USA) and Harley (Canada) were also chosen.
- Finland: Heiskanen, Rantanen, Lindell, Hintz
- USA: Jake Oettinger
- Canada: Thomas Harley
Rantanen and Heiskanen on the Opportunity
Mikko Rantanen said:
> “It’s going to be really cool. We are here together every day and have a chance to go there with them. It’s really special. It’s great to have them, of course, and play with them every day.”
Miro Heiskanen reflected on his first Olympic experience:
> “I was 18 years old. I was a young guy. I had a chance to play there for my country. It was an unbelievable moment.”
He added, “Olympic Games are you when you’re younger. You’re always watching them and you know, wishing you could be there one day and you know, it was an unbelievable experience, and it’s really exciting that we have the chance to play there again.”
Routines and Rivalries
Rantanen said he keeps the same pre-game routine, eating chickpea pasta, sweet potato and chicken every day for the last five years. He invited us to try it sometime.
Heiskanen spoke about playing against Oettinger:
> “I don’t have a problem with that. You know, it’s hard to score on Jakey. That’s a tough one. But, you know, it’s when you’re in the game, you don’t really think about who you’re playing against and stuff.”
Facility Concerns
For months there have been worries that the ice facility will not be completed in time to be tested and ensure player safety. The NHL says it is “cautiously optimistic” that the venue will be ready.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Opening ceremony | Feb. 6, 2026 |
| Games begin | Feb. 6, 2026 |
Key Takeaways
- Heiskanen and Rantanen are the first Stars to join Finland’s Olympic roster.
- The team also includes Oettinger and Harley from the U.S. and Canada.
- Facility readiness remains a potential hurdle for NHL players.
The Stars’ Olympic journey promises to be a thrilling chapter for fans and players alike, as they prepare to face both international competition and familiar NHL teammates on the world stage.
