Latvia’s Hockey Team Faces World Championship Without Merzlikins as Goalie Situation Unfolds
Latvia’s men’s national hockey team will compete in the upcoming 2026 IIHF World Championship without the services of NHL goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, the Latvian Hockey Federation confirmed through official channels on April 17, 2026.
The announcement came via the federation’s verified social media account, stating that Merzlikins would not join the national team for personal reasons during this spring’s preparation period. The 32-year-old Columbus Blue Jackets netminder had represented Latvia in previous international competitions, including the Milan and Cortina Olympic Games where he started the opening game against the United States and played in the playoff match versus Sweden.
Following Latvia’s Olympic tournament participation, Merzlikins expressed satisfaction with his overall performance but indicated reservations about certain aspects of his play, stating in a post-tournament comment: “Overall I am satisfied. Maybe not satisfied with something else, but let that remain…” The veteran goaltender has appeared in six major international tournaments throughout his career, most recently playing for Latvia at the 2024 World Championship.
While Merzlikins’ absence creates a vacancy in Latvia’s goaltending corps, the federation indicated it remains in communication with other NHL-affiliated Latvian players regarding potential World Championship participation. Specifically, Vancouver Canucks forward Theodore Bulgeris could potentially join the roster if he agrees to a recent contract extension with his NHL club before the tournament begins.
The Latvian Hockey Federation noted that Bulgeris, aged 31, would be willing to assist the national team only under the condition that he secures a renewed agreement with the Vancouver Canucks prior to the World Championship. The federation continues to monitor his contract situation with the NHL team.
Latvia maintains dialogue with Florida Panthers defenseman Uvis Balinskis, who was listed on the taxi squad during the current NHL season. The federation stated it would provide separate updates regarding Balinskis’ potential availability for the national team once news develops.
Beyond the NHL-affiliated players, Latvia has opted to include domestic talent in its preparation camp. The federation invited Niks Fejenko, MVP of the Optibet Hockey League finals series and playing for Mogo/RSU, to join the national team’s training sessions. Fejenko, recognized as the OHL championship MVP in the Mogo/RSU roster, brings domestic league experience to the preparation process.
Latvia’s national team is scheduled to play preparatory exhibition games against Denmark and Finland on April 22-23, 2026 in Lahti, Finland. These games will serve as the final tune-up before the team departs for the 2026 IIHF World Championship, which begins in May.
The Latvian Hockey Federation emphasized that updates regarding other Latvian players competing in North America will be shared following the conclusion of their respective NHL seasons, with national team participation details to be communicated after club seasons end.
As Latvia finalizes its roster for the World Championship, the goaltending situation remains fluid, with the federation continuing to evaluate options while preparing for the upcoming international competition.
For continued coverage of Latvia’s national team preparations and World Championship roster developments, follow official updates from the Latvian Hockey Federation.
