Wednesday, 14. January 2026 |
Fabio Wagner ready for the Olympics and the world's best players
The 30-year-old, who was already part of the German team in Beijing in 2022, is really looking forward to the opportunity to compete against the best players in the world once again. In an interview, Wagner spoke about the special significance of the nomination, his preparation, and the unique atmosphere that the Olympics bring.
The nomination: a moment of joy
Fabio Wagner describes the announcement of his nomination as a moment that is always special for him: “It's actually like an international match or a World Cup. The national coach contacts you early on and lets you know that you've been nominated. And of course, you're very happy then. The anticipation is huge.”
For Wagner, who has conceded only 95 goals in 39 games with Red Bull München this season – the second-best record in the league – the nomination is also confirmation of his consistently strong performances. With 342 PENNY DEL games without injury, he has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable defenders in the country.
Die beiden bisherigen Saisontore von Fabio Wagner im VIDEO
// DEL - HIGHLIGHTS
Schedule and preparation: Step by step towards the Olympics
The route to Milan has been clearly planned. Wagner and the German team will start their preparations on January 31 in Bolzano, where a test match against Italy is on the agenda. They will then continue on to Milan, where the NHL players will gradually join the team.
Wagner is particularly looking forward to the atmosphere and the opportunity to experience the games in their entirety: “What's always special about the Olympics is, of course, the opening ceremony. It's unique. Without Covid, you also have more contact with other athletes, you can exchange ideas and simply experience the Olympic feeling.”
Wagner on his role in the team
When asked how he sees his role in the team, Wagner responds modestly and pragmatically: “I just do my job and try to help the team as best I can. No matter what role I have, I hope I can make a contribution.”
Wagner is known for his defensive strength and his ability to bring calm to the game – qualities that can be invaluable in a tournament like the Olympics.
Unique challenges at the Olympics
Wagner is particularly looking forward to meeting the best players in the world, which is what makes this winter's tournament so special for him: “All the NHL players are there. The best players in the world are competing against each other, representing their nations – it doesn't get any better than that. As an athlete, you're always happy when you get to compete against the best players in the world.”
Compared to the 2022 Games in Beijing, which were heavily impacted by restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, Wagner sees this year's Games as an opportunity to enjoy the full Olympic experience: “Now is the time. It's a unique opportunity for ice hockey and the whole world to have all the top stars participating. The Olympic feeling is simply one of a kind.”
Personal goals and team ambitions
For Wagner, the focus is not on his personal achievements, but on supporting the team: “My personal goal is to fulfill my role as best I can and help the team wherever possible. It's an incredible experience that should be enjoyed. As a team, we want to perform at our best and get off to a good start in the tournament.”
Wagner is ready to contribute his experience and defensive qualities to represent Germany at the Olympics. With his impressive consistency and modest, team-oriented attitude, he is an important part of the German team – and a player the team can rely on in Milan.
Contrasting program on days off
Away from the ice hockey tournament, he does not want to miss the unique opportunity to see the world's best in their field. "Alpine skiing, ski jumping, or biathlon would have really appealed to me. But Cortina is probably too far away for a day trip. In Milan, it will probably be speed skating,“ reveals the 30-year-old, who definitely wants to see the city, adding: ”I'm open to any sport; you shouldn't let this opportunity go to waste. But for now, we're still focused on the upcoming league games. That's where our focus lies right now. And when the time comes, we can finally get started."
This refers first and foremost to the game against the Eislöwen Dresden (January 16 | 7:30 p.m.) as well as the duels in Nuremberg (January 18 | 2:00 p.m.) and with the Bremerhaven Pinguins (January 23 | 7:30 p.m.).
Secure your tickets for all regular season games now:
Friday, January 16 (7:30 p.m.): vs. Dresdner Eislöwen – secure your tickets now
Friday, January 23 (7:30 p.m.): vs. Pinguins Bremerhaven – secure your tickets now
Wednesday, February 25 (7:30 p.m.): vs. ERC Ingolstadt – secure your tickets now
Sunday, March 1 (4:30 p.m.): vs. Kölner Haie – secure your tickets now
Friday, March 6 (7:30 p.m.): vs. Grizzlys Wolfsburg – get your tickets now
Sunday, March 8 (2:00 p.m.): vs. Löwen Frankfurt – get your tickets now
Friday, March 13 (7:30 p.m.): vs. Straubing Tigers – get your tickets now
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