Updated: March 24, 2026
Hockey fans can’t get enough of Kirill Kaprizov on the ice—he’s the explosive left winger lighting up the Minnesota Wild with his speed, skill, and game-changing goals. But off the ice? The Russian superstar keeps things ultra-private. That hasn’t stopped everyone from wondering: who is Kirill Kaprizov’s girlfriend in 2026?
The answer is Stesha Malikova, a stunning Russian model, influencer, and entrepreneur who’s captured hearts without ever chasing the spotlight. Their relationship stays low-key, but the couple has been linked for years, and fresh reports confirm it’s still going strong. In this post, we break down everything you need to know—from Kaprizov’s NHL dominance to Stesha’s glamorous world and how these two make their romance work far from the cameras.
Table of Contents
Who Is Kirill Kaprizov? The NHL Superstar’s Incredible Rise
Kirill Kaprizov, born April 26, 1997, is 28 years old and already one of the NHL’s brightest talents. Drafted by the Minnesota Wild in 2015, he burst onto the scene in 2020-21 and quickly became a fan favorite.
- Record-breaking rookie season: He scored 24 goals in just 55 games, earning the Calder Trophy as the league’s top newcomer.
- Big-money commitment: In September 2025, he signed an eight-year, $136 million extension—proof the Wild are all-in on their alternate captain.
- Playing style: Speedy, creative, and clutch—Kaprizov leads by example and brings Russian flair to Minnesota nights.
Despite the fame and fortune, he stays humble and fiercely protective of his personal life. That’s why details about Kirill Kaprizov’s girlfriend always spark major buzz.
Meet Stesha Malikova: Model, Influencer, and Creative Powerhouse
Stesha Malikova (full name Stefania Malikova) was born February 7, 2000, making her 26 in 2026. She’s the daughter of legendary Russian singer and composer Dmitry Malikov, so creativity runs in the family.
Here’s what makes her stand out:
- Social media star: Her Instagram (@steshamalikova) boasts over 741,000 followers filled with beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content.
- Business boss: She founded Dress By Stesha and previously ran Beauty by Steshaa, a makeup and skincare line.
- Multitalented: Stesha has modeled in fashion shows, appeared on magazine covers, and even pursued journalism studies.
At 5’6” with a natural glow and effortless style, she’s the perfect blend of elegance and relatability—exactly the kind of partner who complements Kaprizov’s grounded personality.
Kirill Kaprizov and Stesha Malikova: Inside Their Low-Key Love Story
The pair has been together for several years, though they rarely post about each other. Reports first surfaced around 2022-2023, and as of early 2026, everything points to a solid, long-term relationship. No engagement or wedding bells yet—Kaprizov remains unmarried and focused on hockey.
What we do know:
- They’ve been spotted together during off-seasons, enjoying quiet trips back to Russia.
- Both value privacy—Stesha keeps her feed professional, and Kaprizov almost never mentions his personal life in interviews.
- Friends describe them as supportive and drama-free, a refreshing contrast to flashy athlete romances.
In a world where every detail goes viral, their quiet approach feels genuine and mature.
Why Fans Love the Kirill Kaprizov Girlfriend Buzz
It’s not just curiosity—people connect with the couple because they represent balance. Kaprizov dominates the rink; Stesha builds her own empire. Together they show that success and love can coexist without constant social media updates.
Here are a few reasons the story resonates:
- Cultural connection: Both are proud Russians thriving in their fields.
- Inspiration factor: Stesha proves you can be an influencer without oversharing.
- Hockey romance goals: Fans dream of seeing her at Wild games cheering him on.
| Key Details | Kirill Kaprizov | Stesha Malikova |
|---|---|---|
| Age (March 2026) | 28 | 26 |
| Profession | NHL Left Winger, Minnesota Wild | Model, Influencer, Entrepreneur |
| Nationality | Russian | Russian |
| Notable Achievement | $136M contract extension | 741K Instagram followers, brand founder |
| Relationship Status | Dating Stesha (long-term) | Dating Kirill (low-key) |
| Public Style | Extremely private | Professional & stylish |
Conclusion: A Perfect Match Behind the Scenes
Kirill Kaprizov’s girlfriend, Stesha Malikova, is far more than a pretty face—she’s a driven, talented woman who matches his quiet ambition. As the 2025-26 NHL season heats up and Kaprizov chases another standout year with his massive new deal, fans will keep rooting for both his on-ice success and their off-ice happiness.
Whether you’re a die-hard Wild supporter or just love a good celebrity couple story, one thing’s clear: this Russian power duo knows how to keep things real. Here’s to more goals, more quiet moments, and maybe one day a public appearance that makes hockey hearts melt. Stay tuned—2026 could bring even more exciting updates!