Former Avalanche star handed major role for 2026 Olympics
Photo credit: Andy Cross / Denver Post
A feel good moment for Pierre-Edouard Bellemare happened recently, as the former Colorado Avalanche forward was named captain of his home country of France for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy.
The scrappy veteran forward played two seasons with the Avalanche and even had a PTO offer last season from the club.
Pierre-Edouard Bellemare set to captain France in the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Aaron Poorman of Mile High Sticking recently broke the news that frenchman and former Avalanche forward Pierre-Edouard Bellemare will bear the captain's "C" on his chest when he laces up for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.
While Bellemare's name does not pop up that often in the hockey world, we should not be that surprised he was named captain.
"It should also be noted that Bellemare has worn A's as alternate captain for both Philadelphia and Vegas. During that brief preseason return to Colorado last September, he also wore an A on his sweater. Coaches and teammates love him." -Poorman
With previous leadership experience and a 10 year NHL career, Bellemare more than deserves his recently announced role with the national team. And although his country are massive underdogs, it's an experience he will cherish forever.
"France is set to be major underdogs in the Winter Games. Selecting a player who will be exactly a month shy of his 41st birthday when the games begin in Milan might suggest a lack of depth. It's true that France will only suit up a few players with NHL level experience. Against powerhouses like Canada and the United States, Bellemare's boys will be an afterthought to most fans. Heck, even Sweden and Finland will seem like veritable goliaths in comparison. Those four teams put on an awesome Four Nations showdown in February." -Poorman
With Bellemare's career winding down, it is truly a special way to go out leading your country on the biggest stage.
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