Ice Holds Up, But Work Remains as Olympics Approach
Organizers are optimistic about the ice quality at the Santagiulia Arena, despite ongoing construction and capacity concerns ahead of the February 5th start of the Milan Cortina Olympics.
- Luc Tardif, president of the IIHF, was pleased with the ice surface’s performance during a three-game test.
- The NHL and NHL Players’ association observed the test event, though neither has issued a formal statement.
- Construction delays persist, but organizers believe the “field of play” is secure.
- The IIHF has softened its stance on a future NHL-led World Cup tournament.
Luc Tardif was notably encouraged by how the ice surface withstood a demanding three-game schedule, a common occurrence with 32 men’s and women’s games slated for the arena from February 5 to 22. “I’m going back happy,” Tardif said on sunday. He added confidently, “There is no reason that the NHL will not come.”
While construction continues on the second level of the main hockey venue and behind the scenes at a nearby practice rink, Tardif indicated a willingness to adapt if necessary. However, he emphasized that a playable ice surface was paramount to ensuring the first Olympic tournament in 12 years to feature NHL players proceeds as planned. “For me, the setup for the sport itself … I’m not worried,” Tardif stated. “The hospitality suite, the area for the journalists (is not finished), but my job is ice hockey.”
Staff from both the NHL and the NHL Players’ association were present to observe the test event, but have yet to release any official comments. Despite the progress, the arena’s capacity currently stands at 11,800, a reduction from the originally targeted 14,000. Tardif expressed some disappointment,noting recent discussions about a potential drop to 10,000,but was relieved that didn’t materialize. He acknowledged the need for a vibrant atmosphere, emphasizing that the priority remains a playable ice surface.
The successful staging of this tournament is seen as a stepping stone toward a new era of NHL participation in the Olympics, with plans for the league to send its players to the 2030 French Alps Games and the 2034 utah Games.
Looking beyond Milan, Tardif revealed the IIHF has softened its objections to an NHL-led World Cup tournament in 2028, acknowledging it’s “not exactly the win-win agreement we wanted.” He expressed a desire to revisit
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