Last Updated on November 12, 2026 by Janet Asprin
Rasmus Sandin is a Swedish professional ice hockey player who plays as a defenseman for the Washington Capitals in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on March 7, 2000, in Uppsala, Sweden, Sandin grew up in a family with a strong passion for hockey and competitive sports.
Beyond his NHL career, Sandin is engaged to Lisa Hörnblad, a former Swedish alpine ski racer. The couple announced their engagement in August 2026 after he proposed during a vacation at Lake Como, Italy.
His parents are Patric Sandin and Helena Sandin, while his older brother, Linus Sandin, is also a professional ice hockey player. Their family’s shared interests in hockey, golf, and other sports have helped shape Rasmus’s competitive personality and professional ambitions.
Rasmus Sandin’s Girlfriend: Who Is He Dating?
Rasmus Sandin is in a relationship with Lisa Hörnblad, a former Swedish professional alpine ski racer who is now his fiancée.
The couple has been together for several years and has shared aspects of their relationship through social media and interviews with Swedish sports publications.
Lisa previously represented Sweden in international alpine skiing competitions, specializing in speed events such as downhill and super-G.
Her competitive career included appearances in World Cup races and major international competitions.
However, recurring knee injuries and multiple surgeries eventually affected her ability to continue competing at the highest level.
She announced her retirement from professional alpine skiing in April 2024.
Following her retirement, Lisa spent more time in the United States with Sandin, who was playing for the Washington Capitals.
In November 2024, Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet identified Hörnblad as Sandin’s girlfriend and reported that she had moved to Washington to live with him.
Sandin explained that having Lisa nearby made his life away from hockey more enjoyable, particularly after spending much of his professional career living apart from family members in Sweden.
In February 2025, Sveriges Radio published an interview with Hörnblad about adjusting to life in the United States after retiring from competitive skiing.
She discussed the transition from being a professional athlete to supporting her partner’s NHL career while exploring new personal and professional interests.
Rasmus Sandin and Lisa Hörnblad’s Engagement
Rasmus Sandin and Lisa Hörnblad became engaged in August 2026.
The engagement took place during a romantic vacation at Lake Como in northern Italy.
On August 15, 2026, Lisa shared photographs and videos from the trip through Instagram, revealing that Sandin had proposed to her.
The announcement included images of the couple celebrating on a boat and a close-up of Lisa’s engagement ring.
In an August 16 report, Swiss newspaper Blick explained that Lisa had not expected the proposal.
Sandin followed the traditional approach of getting down on one knee before asking her to marry him.
Lisa expressed her happiness and surprise, describing the moment as the fulfillment of a personal dream.
The announcement attracted congratulations from several figures in international skiing, including Corinne Suter, Anna Swenn-Larsson, and Kajsa Vickhoff Lie.
The engagement marked an important milestone for the couple after years of supporting each other’s professional sporting careers.
Is Rasmus Sandin Married?
There is no publicly verified announcement confirming that Rasmus Sandin and Lisa Hörnblad have married.
The latest reliable reporting identifies them as an engaged couple following Sandin’s proposal in August 2026.
Although they have publicly celebrated their engagement, a wedding date or ceremony has not been reliably documented.
Therefore, Lisa Hörnblad should be identified as Sandin’s fiancée rather than his wife unless the couple publicly confirms a marriage.
Does Rasmus Sandin Have Children?
There are no publicly confirmed reports that Rasmus Sandin has children.
The Washington Capitals defenseman has not announced the birth of a son or daughter, and official NHL profiles do not identify any children.
His personal life has recently attracted attention because of his relationship and engagement to Lisa Hörnblad.
Although Sandin has occasionally appeared in photographs and videos with children, those appearances should not be interpreted as confirmation that he is a father.
For example, in September 2025, NHL.com published a video showing Sandin playing indoor ball hockey with Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin and Ovechkin’s sons.
The moment demonstrated the friendly relationships between Capitals teammates and their families.
However, the children in the video were Ovechkin’s sons, not Sandin’s.
Until a verified announcement establishes otherwise, Sandin should be described as having no publicly confirmed children.
Rasmus Sandin’s Parents: Meet Patric and Helena Sandin
Rasmus Sandin was raised by his parents, Patric Sandin and Helena Sandin, in Sweden.
Both parents encouraged their sons to participate in sports and helped create a competitive household.
In a December 2018 interview with Hockeysverige, Patric discussed the family environment that shaped Rasmus and his older brother Linus.
He explained that the family frequently competed in activities including tennis, padel, golf, and board games.
Rather than allowing their children to win easily, Patric and Helena encouraged them to work hard and develop confidence through competition.
Rasmus Sandin’s Father: Patric Sandin
Patric Sandin is Rasmus Sandin’s father and one of the most influential figures in his hockey development.
Patric encouraged both Rasmus and Linus to become involved in competitive sports during childhood.
He also developed an interest in golf and operated golf-related businesses in Sweden.
According to an interview with Linus published by the Swedish Hockey League in 2023, the brothers grew up surrounded by golf because their father had operated several golf shops.
This background helped introduce the family to golf, which became one of their favorite offseason activities.
However, hockey eventually became the main professional focus for both sons.
Patric supported their development as they progressed through youth hockey programs in Sweden.
How Patric Sandin Influenced His Son’s Hockey Career
In a December 2018 interview, Patric described Rasmus as an adaptable and highly competitive young athlete.
He explained that growing up alongside Linus, who was approximately four years older, helped Rasmus become comfortable competing against older children.
Because Rasmus regularly joined his brother and his brother’s friends, he learned to play against stronger and more experienced opponents.
Patric believed these experiences helped develop his son’s confidence and ability to adapt to different situations.
He also supported Rasmus’s decision to move to Canada during his teenage years to pursue junior hockey.
At the time, Rasmus was considering opportunities with Rögle BK in Sweden and the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in the Ontario Hockey League.
Patric believed that playing regularly in Canada would give him an opportunity to develop his skills and become better prepared for professional hockey.
The decision proved successful when Rasmus was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft.
Patric celebrated the achievement alongside his son and continued supporting his career in North America.
Patric Sandin’s Connection to Börje Salming
Patric Sandin was a longtime admirer of Swedish NHL legend Börje Salming.
Shortly after Toronto drafted Rasmus in 2018, Salming invited Rasmus and Patric to lunch in Stockholm.
The meeting was a memorable experience for the family because Salming had been one of Patric’s childhood hockey heroes.
In January 2023, Rasmus became an ambassador for the Börje Salming ALS Foundation, a charitable organization supporting research and people affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Rasmus explained that his father was particularly proud of the appointment because of his admiration for Salming.
The experience demonstrated how the family’s passion for hockey extended across generations.
Rasmus Sandin’s Mother: Helena Sandin
Helena Sandin is Rasmus Sandin’s mother.
She helped raise Rasmus and Linus in Sweden while encouraging their participation in competitive sports.
Like Patric, Helena maintained an active interest in the brothers’ athletic achievements.
In a 2018 interview with Hockeysverige, Patric described Helena as highly competitive and explained that the family regularly challenged one another in sports and games.
Helena supported Rasmus as he moved from Sweden to Canada and eventually began his NHL career with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
She also remained involved in the lives of both sons while they pursued professional hockey in different countries.
The family later faced a difficult period when Helena was diagnosed with cancer.
Helena Sandin’s Cancer Diagnosis and Recovery
In January 2022, Helena Sandin was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
According to Swedish reporting by Aftonbladet, the disease had spread to other organs, creating serious concerns for the family.
Rasmus subsequently spoke about his mother’s illness during interviews about the Washington Capitals’ Hockey Fights Cancer activities.
Her diagnosis gave him a personal connection to initiatives supporting cancer patients and their families.
During the 2024-25 NHL season, Sandin shared encouraging news about his mother’s condition.
In November 2024, Aftonbladet reported that Helena was feeling better and preparing to attend an NHL game in Washington for the first time since becoming ill.
Rasmus expressed his happiness about having his parents visit him and watch him compete in person.
He explained that the experience was particularly meaningful after the challenges the family had faced during Helena’s treatment.
Her illness has remained an important part of the family’s experiences, although her more recent private medical details have not been publicly established.
Rasmus Sandin’s Siblings: Does He Have Brothers or Sisters?
Rasmus Sandin has one publicly confirmed sibling, his older brother Linus Sandin.
Both brothers grew up in Sweden and developed a passion for hockey during childhood.
Their shared interest eventually led them to professional careers, including appearances in the NHL.
Linus Sandin – Rasmus Sandin’s Older Brother
Linus Sandin was born on May 19, 1996, in Uppsala, Sweden.
He is a professional ice hockey forward who plays for Rögle BK in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL).
Linus is approximately four years older than Rasmus and played an important role in his younger brother’s athletic development.
Both brothers began their hockey journeys in Sweden, including early involvement with Gimo IF.
Linus subsequently progressed through Swedish junior hockey before establishing himself professionally.
He represented organizations including Almtuna IS, Rögle BK, and HV71.
On April 29, 2020, the Philadelphia Flyers signed Linus to a one-year entry-level contract.
He moved to North America and spent time with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms in the American Hockey League.
On January 25, 2022, Linus made his NHL debut for Philadelphia against the New York Islanders.
Although he appeared in only one NHL regular-season game, the achievement meant that both Sandin brothers had reached the world’s leading professional hockey league.
Linus later returned to Sweden and rejoined Rögle BK in October 2022.
In March 2024, the club announced a contract extension keeping him with the organization through the 2026-27 season.
During the 2026-27 season, Linus continued playing for Rögle in Sweden’s top professional league.
How Linus Sandin Influenced Rasmus Sandin’s Hockey Career
Linus played an important role in Rasmus’s development during childhood.
Because Linus was four years older, Rasmus frequently participated in activities with older children.
In a 2018 interview, Patric Sandin recalled that Rasmus often joined Linus and his friends in hockey games and other sports.
Even when Rasmus was considerably younger than the other participants, he insisted on competing alongside them.
His father believed these experiences helped develop his confidence and determination.
In a 2023 interview with the Swedish Hockey League, Linus confirmed that he and Rasmus had always maintained a close relationship.
He explained that the brothers regularly trained together during the offseason and enjoyed playing golf and padel.
Linus also recalled that Rasmus frequently joined street hockey games with his older friends, even when they initially preferred to play without him.
The brothers’ competitive relationship gradually developed into a strong friendship.
Rasmus and Linus Sandin Played Together in Sweden
One of the most important shared achievements in the brothers’ careers came in 2017.
Both Linus and Rasmus joined Rögle BK and earned opportunities to compete in the Swedish Hockey League.
In a June 2026 interview published by the Washington Capitals, Rasmus recalled that the brothers signed their first SHL contracts with the same organization.
They subsequently made their SHL debuts together in the same game.
Rasmus described the occasion as one of the most memorable moments of his professional hockey career.
The brothers also played several additional games together before their careers took them in different directions.
Although they have not played together in the same NHL regular-season game, Rasmus has expressed hope that they might share the ice again professionally.
Their relationship reflects the important role sibling encouragement has played in their hockey journeys.
Does Rasmus Sandin Have a Sister?
There are no publicly confirmed reports identifying a sister of Rasmus Sandin.
Published family biographies and interviews consistently identify Linus as his older brother.
Although this information establishes that Rasmus has at least one sibling, no reliable source has confirmed the existence of additional brothers or sisters.
Rasmus Sandin’s Childhood and Family Background
Rasmus Sandin was born on March 7, 2000, in Uppsala, Sweden.
He grew up in the Uppland region, where his family encouraged participation in sports from an early age.
His older brother Linus became an important influence on his interest in hockey.
Both brothers played youth hockey with Gimo IF before progressing through more competitive Swedish development programs.
Rasmus later joined Brynäs IF and subsequently Rögle BK.
In 2017, he moved to Canada to play for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in the Ontario Hockey League.
During the 2017-18 season, he recorded 45 points, including 12 goals and 33 assists, in 51 regular-season games.
His performances helped establish him as one of the most promising young defensemen available in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft.
On June 22, 2018, the Toronto Maple Leafs selected Sandin in the first round, 29th overall.
The selection represented an important milestone for Rasmus, his parents, and his older brother.
Rasmus Sandin’s NHL Career and Family Support
After being drafted by Toronto, Sandin began his professional career in North America with the Toronto Marlies in the American Hockey League.
He made his NHL debut with the Toronto Maple Leafs on October 2, 2019, against the Ottawa Senators.
He subsequently developed into a regular defenseman for Toronto, gaining experience in both offensive and defensive situations.
On February 28, 2023, the Maple Leafs traded Sandin to the Washington Capitals.
The move gave him an opportunity to assume greater responsibilities and develop his role as a two-way defenseman.
He made an immediate impression with Washington, recording three assists during his Capitals debut against the San Jose Sharks on March 4, 2023.
On March 6, 2024, Washington signed him to a five-year, $23 million contract extension.
The agreement carries an average annual value of $4.6 million and runs through the 2028-29 NHL season.
Throughout his career, Sandin has maintained close relationships with his parents and brother in Sweden.
He regularly returns home during the offseason, spending time with family and participating in activities such as golf.
His relationship with Lisa Hörnblad has also provided companionship and personal support while living in Washington.
Rasmus Sandin’s Charitable Activities and Family Values
Rasmus Sandin has participated in charitable initiatives supporting people affected by serious illnesses.
In January 2023, he became an ambassador for the Börje Salming ALS Foundation.
The organization supports research into amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and provides assistance to people affected by the disease.
Sandin accepted the ambassador role after receiving an invitation from Swedish hockey legend Nicklas Lidström.
His father Patric was particularly proud because Börje Salming had been one of his hockey heroes.
Sandin has also participated in charitable golf activities in Sweden, including events supporting cancer-related causes.
His mother’s experience with cancer has given additional personal meaning to his involvement in initiatives helping patients and families.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rasmus Sandin’s Family
Who is Rasmus Sandin’s girlfriend?
Rasmus Sandin’s longtime girlfriend is Lisa Hörnblad, a former Swedish professional alpine ski racer. The couple became engaged in August 2026.
Is Rasmus Sandin engaged?
Yes. Rasmus Sandin proposed to Lisa Hörnblad during a vacation at Lake Como, Italy, in August 2026.
Is Rasmus Sandin married?
There is no publicly verified announcement confirming that Rasmus Sandin is married. His relationship with Lisa Hörnblad was publicly described as an engagement in August 2026.
Does Rasmus Sandin have children?
No children have been publicly confirmed for Rasmus Sandin.
Who are Rasmus Sandin’s parents?
His parents are Patric Sandin and Helena Sandin. They raised Rasmus and his older brother Linus in Sweden.
Who is Rasmus Sandin’s father?
His father is Patric Sandin, who encouraged his sons to participate in competitive sports and helped support their professional hockey development.
Who is Rasmus Sandin’s mother?
His mother is Helena Sandin. She has supported his hockey career and publicly faced ovarian cancer after being diagnosed in January 2022.
Does Rasmus Sandin have siblings?
Yes. Rasmus Sandin has an older brother named Linus Sandin, who is also a professional ice hockey player.
Who is Linus Sandin?
Linus Sandin is Rasmus Sandin’s older brother. Born on May 19, 1996, he is a Swedish professional hockey forward who has played for the Philadelphia Flyers and Rögle BK.
Did Rasmus and Linus Sandin play together?
Yes. The brothers played together for Rögle BK in Sweden and made their Swedish Hockey League debuts in the same game.
Does Rasmus Sandin have a sister?
No sister has been publicly confirmed in reliable family reporting.
Who is Lisa Hörnblad?
Lisa Hörnblad is a former Swedish alpine ski racer who competed in international downhill and super-G events. She retired from competitive skiing in April 2024 and became engaged to Rasmus Sandin in August 2026.
Where did Rasmus Sandin grow up?
Rasmus Sandin grew up in Sweden’s Uppland region and developed his hockey skills through youth programs including Gimo IF.
Which NHL team does Rasmus Sandin play for?
Rasmus Sandin plays for the Washington Capitals. He joined Washington in February 2023 after being traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs.
A dedicated ice hockey journalist, Janet Asprin delivers sharp, detailed coverage of the NHL season. From evaluating trade deadline moves and line combinations to analyzing power plays and postseason standings, Janet brings a fresh, structured perspective to every game. She focuses on translating high-speed rink strategy into compelling stories and actionable insights for hockey fans.
