Overview
- The IIHF said both Olympic rinks will measure 60.0 m by 26.0 m (about 196.85 ft by 85.3 ft), more than three feet shorter than the NHL’s 200 by 85 ft standard.
- Organizers and the IIHF called the differences insignificant, noting the size matched Beijing 2022 and recent NHL Global Series games in Stockholm.
- Construction at the Santagiulia arena is behind schedule, with test events set for Jan. 9–11 and no formal backup venue identified by organizers.
- NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said the arena is targeted for completion on Feb. 2 and reiterated that players will not participate if the ice is deemed unsafe, with league ice experts now assisting on site.
- Some coaches and players said the smaller sheet will be noticeable, and officials indicated the neutral zone markings would account for the shorter length; the women’s tournament runs Feb. 5–19 and the men’s Feb. 11–22.