Overview
- The IIHF said Olympic rinks in Milan will be 60.0m x 26.0m (196.85 ft x 85.3 ft), slightly wider but over three feet shorter than NHL regulation, and called the difference insignificant for safety and play.
- Organizers noted the same dimensions were used at Beijing 2022 and in the NHL’s Global Series in Stockholm, and said both Milan venues will use the approved size.
- The Santagiulia arena remains behind schedule, with test events set for Jan. 9–11 and a projected completion date of Feb. 2, and organizers have indicated there is no contingency venue.
- NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said he is cautiously optimistic and has dispatched league technicians to assist on-site, but reiterated players will not compete if the ice is judged unsafe.
- NHL and NHLPA officials were surprised by the dimensions after a summer understanding for NHL-sized ice, while players and staff acknowledged the change but emphasized it will be the same for all teams.