Henrik Zetterberg’s No. 40 could be the next number headed to the Little Caesars Arena rafters, with one report pointing to a jersey retirement in Detroit as soon as next season. Across the Atlantic, the former Red Wings captain and 2008 Conn Smythe winner already has a date on the calendar, as his boyhood club, Timrå IK, plans to retire his No. 20 jersey on Oct. 17. Since hanging up his skates, Zetterberg has stayed close to the game in advisory roles with the same organizations that helped shape his career.
According to Detroit Hockey Now, the Wings are expected to retire Zetterberg’s No. 40 during the 2026–27 season. HockeySverige reports that Timrå IK will hoist his No. 20 at SCA Arena on Oct. 17 and notes that Zetterberg has spoken about his ongoing role with the club.
Timrå Sets Oct. 17 Ceremony
Timrå’s published 2026–27 schedule lists Oct. 17 as a home date against Björklöven, a night Swedish outlets say will include the number retirement festivities, according to Timrå IK. For Medelpad supporters, it shapes up as a rare chance to see one of the club’s greatest exports honored on home ice.
Zetterberg’s Place in Wings History
From Timrå’s junior ranks to a spot among Detroit legends, Zetterberg built what many regard as a Hall of Fame-caliber career. He debuted with the Red Wings in 2002, helped lead the team to the 2008 Stanley Cup, was voted the 2008 Conn Smythe playoff MVP, and later served as the Wings’ captain. His career totals and awards are laid out on his player page and help explain why both clubs are lining up tributes. Wikipedia provides a season-by-season overview of his achievements.
What Fans Should Watch for Next
Detroit Hockey Now frames the move as likely next season, although the Red Wings have yet to post an official jersey retirement announcement on their own site. If and when the team makes it formal, fans can probably expect a carefully chosen home date, complete with alumni appearances and video tributes. The timing and full details will be clearer once a statement lands on the official news feed maintained by the Detroit Red Wings.
