Timo Meier Makes History in Switzerland’s Olympic Opener at Milano Cortina 2026
Switzerland couldn’t have asked for a stronger start to their Olympic campaign, and Timo Meier made sure of that. The New Jersey Devils winger lit up the third period with two goals, helping the Swiss cruise to a 4-0 win over France in their Group A opener at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
This wasn’t just a win-it was a statement. And for Meier, it was a milestone.
With his pair of third-period goals, he became the first Swiss-born NHL player to score two or more goals in a single Olympic game. That’s not just a footnote-it’s a landmark moment for Swiss hockey on the international stage.
A Lightning Start
Switzerland wasted no time setting the tone. Damien Riat opened the scoring just 55 seconds into the game, sending a clear message that the Swiss came ready.
Less than three minutes later, defenseman J.J. Moser added another, giving Switzerland a quick 2-0 cushion before France could even find its footing.
That early burst allowed the Swiss to dictate the pace, and they never looked back.
Devils Connection Runs Deep
Meier wasn’t the only Devil making noise in red and white. Switzerland’s Olympic roster features three New Jersey teammates: Meier, captain Nico Hischier, and defenseman Jonas Siegenthaler. That familiarity showed on the ice, with clean zone entries, crisp puck movement, and a level of chemistry that’s tough to replicate in short tournaments like this.
Meier, who was traded to New Jersey from San Jose in 2023 and signed an eight-year, $70.4 million deal shortly after, is in his Olympic debut. But he’s no stranger to the international stage-he’s already earned silver with Switzerland at the 2018 and 2025 IIHF World Championships. Now, he’s bringing that same fire to the biggest winter sports stage of them all.
In the NHL, Meier has put up 463 career points-231 goals and 232 assists-and has 28 points so far in the 2025-26 season. He’s known for his physical play, strong net-front presence, and scoring touch, and all of that was on display in Milan.
Genoni Slams the Door
While Meier was making history up front, veteran goaltender Leonardo Genoni was locking things down in the crease. The Swiss netminder turned away all 27 shots he faced, earning the shutout and anchoring a defensive effort that looked sharp from start to finish. Genoni’s experience and poise were evident, especially when France tried to claw back with a few flurries in the second period.
Switzerland outshot France 43-27, and the final score reflected that level of control. From puck drop to final horn, the Swiss were in command.
Next Up: Canada
The road only gets tougher from here. Switzerland now turns its attention to a heavyweight matchup with Canada on February 13. The Canadians are coming off a dominant 5-0 win over Czechia and bring a deep, skilled roster that’s always a threat in Olympic play.
But if Switzerland can carry over the momentum-and if Meier continues to play like a man on a mission-they’ll be a tough out for anyone in Group A.
Around the Rink
Elsewhere on opening day, Team USA began its Olympic journey with a matchup against Latvia, also on February 12. While all eyes will be on the marquee matchups ahead, Switzerland’s dominant opener has certainly put them on the radar.
And with Meier leading the way, they’re not just aiming to compete-they’re aiming to contend.
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