Andiamo, Auston: Matthews is Olympic Bound

By Lucia Bianchi – Sports Correspondent, Global Ice

June 16, 2025

TORONTO — The roar echoed from the streets of Scottsdale to the piazzas of Rome as Auston Matthews, the American-born Toronto Maple Leafs captain, made it official: he’s heading to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina—and he’ll be wearing the red, white, and *green* of Italy.

In a stunning and emotional twist, Matthews, whose mother is of Italian descent, has opted to represent Team Italy in what many are calling one of the most compelling Olympic hockey stories in decades. The 27-year-old sniper, who has already claimed a Hart Trophy and Rocket Richard honors, announced his decision Monday morning at a press conference held at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

“It’s a deep, personal choice,” Matthews said, draped in a tailored Italian national jersey. “This is about honoring my family, my heritage, and being part of something truly special. Hockey is global—and so am I.”

The move became possible following a recent rule change by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), allowing dual nationals more flexibility in national team eligibility if they haven’t represented a country in IIHF play within the past four years. Matthews last played for Team USA at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, but with NHL players absent from that tournament and Matthews not suiting up in a World Championship since 2019, the door was open.

And Italy came knocking.

“They approached us early, quietly,” said Matthews’ agent, Judd Moldaver. “There was no ego—just opportunity. Auston saw the vision and the chance to elevate Italian hockey on the world’s biggest stage.”

Italy, ranked 16th in the world, automatically qualifies for the 2026 Games as host nation. But with Matthews onboard, the Azzurri are no longer seen as just ceremonial participants. They’re suddenly a team to watch—especially with rumors swirling that other Italian-American NHLers, such as Sonny Milano and Adam Ginning, may join him.

Matthews’ decision has sparked debate across the hockey world, especially in the United States, where fans and analysts lament the loss of their most dynamic center. USA Hockey released a terse statement: “We respect Auston’s choice and thank him for his contributions.”

Italian fans, however, are already chanting his name.

“Andiamo, Auston!” rang out from the crowds in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele as the news broke.

For Matthews, the Olympic dream isn’t just about medals. “It’s about legacy,” he said. “If we can inspire a generation of kids in Italy to pick up a stick, that’s gold to me.”

And with that, the prodigal son of Arizona becomes a hero of Italy.

Olympic hockey just got a lot more delizioso.