As already explained in the past, Théo Rochette did not accept the selection for last year's edition of the tournament in order to avoid quarantines and thus focus on his season with the Quebec Remparts. Since then, Rochette has not heard anything from the management of the national team.
"We have not had any contact with Théo Rochette this year," confirms Lars Weibel. "Last year, he didn't want to come to the World Championship. We warned him that the Swiss team was not an "à la carte" choice. He still declined the selection."
It is a matter of respect for Lars Weibel: "A player cannot choose when to come. It is also my responsibility towards the other players who are always available. And not only at the U20 level. It applies to the NHL players and everyone else."
Nonetheless, the door to the Swiss national team is not completely closed for Rochette: "For Théo, we will re-evaluate the situation after this season. I really regret this situation, because everyone is aware that he is an excellent player and that he could have a real impact on this team" concludes Weibel.
