Milan, Italy – Concerns are mounting over the size of the ice rink being constructed for the 2026 Winter Olympics, potentially jeopardizing the return of NHL players to the Games for the first time in 12 years. A recent report revealed the new arena in Milan Cortina will feature a smaller ice surface than those used in the National Hockey League.
The discrepancy in rink size has sparked debate about player safety and the overall quality of competition.
Rink Size: A Key Point of Contention
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For nearly 90 years, NHL rinks have maintained a consistent size of 200 feet long and 85 feet wide, standardized in 1929. Historically, Olympic rinks were larger, measuring 197 feet long and 98.4 feet wide. While larger surfaces were once thought to promote more skillful play, the reality is often different. Players tend to gravitate towards the perimeter ice, leaving the more dangerous scoring areas less populated.
The rink planned for the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics will be 196.85 feet long and 85.3 feet wide – a shorter length than previous Olympic venues, but only slightly narrower than an NHL rink.
What’s the NHL Saying?
At a recent meeting of the NHL Board of Governors in Colorado, deputy commissioner Bill Daly addressed the concerns. He acknowledged a “different interpretation” of what constituted an NHL-sized rink but expressed optimism about the progress being made.
“I actually do think most of my information is more on the positive side than the negative side,” Daly said, per NHL.com. “The buildings are supposed to be done by Feb. 2, so we have some time, and the latest reports I was getting, I was at the table in the meeting, were positive.”
The NHL is actively assisting with the rink’s construction, providing ice technicians to ensure the surface meets NHL standards. Daly emphasized that player safety remains the top priority, stating, “Obviously, if the players feel that the ice is unsafe, we’re not going to play. It’s as simple as that.”
Is a smaller rink actually safer? While counterintuitive, a smaller rink can force more physical play and reduce the distance players need to travel, potentially leading to quicker decisions and fewer high-speed collisions.
Player Reactions: A Mixed Bag
Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon believes the smaller ice surface could significantly impact play in key offensive areas. “If you have a foot less space, it can be a big difference,” MacKinnon told The Athletic. “If you get a foot closer in the slot, I think that could be a big difference. But it’s the same for everybody.” However, he added with a shrug, “It’ll change things, but who cares?”
Martin Necas, also of the Avalanche and a star for Czechia, expressed excitement about the compressed game, predicting a faster, more exciting product for fans. “It’s not a big deal,” Necas said. “To me, I think it’s better that it’s smaller than if it’ll be bigger. I think it’s going to be even better for the fans. It’s going to be super quick, super fast-paced. I’m excited.”
Matthew Tkachuk, speaking on the “Wingmen” podcast with his brother Brady, echoed Necas’ sentiment, suggesting the smaller rink could lead to more action and physicality. “I actually don’t mind it being a little smaller,” Tkachuk said. “Not only am I not fast, so it works for my game, but I think there’s gonna be more action.”
Brady Tkachuk was unequivocal: “We’re going there,” he said. “We’re going to play. It’s something we’ve dreamt of. It’s been too many years without it.” His brother, Matthew, took a particularly blunt stance on safety concerns, stating, “Even if it’s not safe, I still wanna play. I don’t give a shit.”
What About a Contingency Plan?
Currently, there is no publicly announced contingency plan. While other rinks are available nearby, including the 2006 Turin Olympics arena and facilities in Switzerland, relocating the tournament would present significant logistical challenges.
- The 2026 Olympic rink in Milan Cortina will be smaller than traditional NHL rinks.
- The NHL is working with organizers to ensure the ice surface meets acceptable standards.
- Player reactions are mixed, with some expressing concerns and others anticipating a more physical game.
- No contingency plan is currently in place should the rink prove unsuitable.