One of the most respected and decorated players in Swiss and international hockey history, Andres Ambühl, has officially announced that he will retire at the end of the current season. The 41-year-old forward revealed his decision on Thursday through a statement on the official website of HC Davos, the club where he spent most of his remarkable career.
Ambühl’s retirement will bring an end to an incredible 25-year professional career, filled with records, championships, and leadership both on and off the ice.
A Career Full of Records and Championships
Andres Ambühl is not only a legend in Switzerland but also a record-setter on the global stage. He holds the record for most appearances at the IIHF World Championship, having played in 19 tournaments and 141 games — more than any player in history. Representing Switzerland, he helped the national team win two silver medals, including one just last year in Prague.
In the Swiss National League, Ambühl became the all-time leader in games played this season, holding the top spot for both regular-season and total games (including playoffs).
He is also a six-time Swiss champion, winning five titles with HC Davos and another with ZSC Lions (Zurich). In the 2014–15 season, Ambühl was named the National League MVP, showing his importance and consistency on the ice.
Loyal to HC Davos, His Hometown Club
Born in Davos, Ambühl has spent almost his entire professional career playing for his hometown club. Apart from a short loan to EHC Lenzerheide-Valbella, one season in the AHL with Hartford Wolf Pack (2009–10), and two seasons with the ZSC Lions (2010–2012), he has worn the Davos jersey proudly.
He returned to HC Davos in 2012 and became team captain in 2014. Under his leadership, Davos remained a strong competitor in the league and continues to perform well this season, currently sitting fifth out of 14 teams in the National League standings.
Ambühl’s Final Season and Future Plans
In his final season, Ambühl has scored 1 goal and 11 assists in 43 games. Earlier this season, he faced a two-game suspension after a head-check on Oskars Lapinskis of the SCL Tigers, a rare blemish in an otherwise clean and respected career.
Despite his decision to retire, Ambühl is likely to stay involved with HC Davos. The club had previously announced plans to extend his contract and keep him on in a new role after his playing days end.
“It’s clear to us that Andres will continue to work for the club after his playing career ends,” said club manager Marc Gianola in a statement made last November.
Andres Ambühl’s retirement marks the end of a historic hockey career, not just in Switzerland but in the international game as well. From leading his country on the world stage to becoming a record-breaking icon at HC Davos, Ambühl has left an unforgettable legacy.
With five national titles, MVP honours, and unmatched experience, he remains a symbol of loyalty, hard work, and passion for the sport. While his playing days are coming to an end, fans can look forward to seeing him take on a new role behind the scenes, continuing to support the club and the game he loves.
