Sweden's junior national team has reduced its roster to 25 players ahead of the World Junior Championship by cutting Skellefteå AIK forward Valter Lindberg. The decision was announced by the national team leadership on Sunday evening via social channels. Lindberg will return home to Sweden as the team prepares for its final practice match.
The Swedish U20 team, initially selected with 26 players by head coach Magnus Hävelid for the 2025 World Junior Championship in Minnesota, USA, underwent a final trim to meet tournament requirements. Valter Lindberg, a forward from Skellefteå AIK, was the player chosen to leave the camp, leaving 25 athletes in the squad.
The announcement came late Sunday evening, confirming Lindberg's departure from the JVM camp. An updated roster is available on the Swedish Ice Hockey Association's website at swehockey.se. The team's goal remains clear: to challenge for gold in the tournament, which begins on December 26, known as Boxing Day or annandag jul in Sweden.
Prior to the start, the Juniorkronorna have one remaining preparation game scheduled for the night leading into Christmas Eve against Switzerland. This match will serve as the final tune-up before the competitive phase kicks off in the United States.
Hävelid's selection emphasized a strong group aimed at medal contention, and the roster adjustment ensures compliance while maintaining depth. Lindberg's exit marks the end of his involvement in this prestigious under-20 event.
