MILAN — The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has praised the new Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena for the upcoming Milan Cortina Games, even though parts of it still resemble a construction site.
This arena will play a key role in the games, especially since NHL players are returning to compete for the first time in over a decade. Yet, there have been concerns about construction delays affecting the venue’s readiness.
Currently, the ice rink is set up, and most of the seating is in place. However, there’s still a lot of plastic sheeting around, and areas like the locker rooms are not fully finished. Christophe Dubi, the IOC’s executive director, expressed his amazement at how much progress has been made since his last visit. “The seating looks fantastic,” he noted, reflecting on the dramatic improvements from just a few weeks ago.
The NHL has expressed worries about the quality of the ice due to these delays. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly stated that player safety is the league’s top priority, and they would not send players if conditions were not adequate. The IOC shares this sentiment but remains optimistic. Dubi emphasized that extensive planning and expert oversight have been applied to ensure the venue meets high standards.
User reactions have been mixed. Some players have shared positive feedback on the ice conditions after test events. IIHF President Luc Tardif remarked that the tests showed promising ice quality, even during multiple games in a row. He noted that the ice was smooth, which is crucial for professional play.
Canadian player James Livingston mentioned that NHL players would adapt quickly, recalling how many grew up playing in varied conditions back home. This highlights a shared understanding among players of what to expect, regardless of the setting.
As the competition dates approach, confidence in the arena’s readiness seems to be growing. The men’s Olympic hockey tournament will run from February 11-22, and the women’s from February 5-19.
For further insights on the impact of NHL participation in the Olympics, you can check a report from the IIHF.
