Construction delays are plaguing the main hockey arena for the upcoming Milan-Cortina Games, with concerns mounting about the tight timeline. Initially set for a December test event, the 16,000-seat Santagiulia arena has faced setbacks, prompting a relocation of the event to a smaller venue. As a result, uncertainties loom over the readiness of the main arena, potentially impacting the schedule of the women’s preliminary round competition on Feb. 5, just before the games’ opening ceremony.
Andrea Varnier, CEO of the Milan-Cortina local organizing committee, acknowledged the challenges, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. While NHL commissioner Gary Bettman deferred inquiries about the construction progress to the International Olympic Committee and International Ice Hockey Federation, he underscored the importance of ensuring a top-tier facility for the games.
The relocation of the test event from the Santagiulia arena to the Rho Fiera hockey venue has further complicated matters. Typically, Olympic venues undergo testing well in advance to ensure all aspects, including ice quality, concession stands, and washrooms, are fully operational. The Santagiulia arena, set to become Italy’s largest indoor venue and a potential host for future events like the ATP Finals, faces mounting pressure to meet stringent standards.
Despite the challenges, tickets for events at the Santagiulia arena are already on sale, fetching high prices. Notably, tickets for the men’s gold medal game on Feb. 22 are commanding top rates, exceeding those of other sports events at the Milan-Cortina Games.
The return of NHL players to the Olympics after an extended absence has generated significant anticipation. The Canadian teams, both men and women, are gearing up for their respective matches, with the women’s team defending their gold medal starting Feb. 5 against Finland. As excitement builds for the upcoming games, concerns persist over the timely completion of crucial infrastructure at the main hockey arena.
