The NHL and NHL Players’ Association issued a joint statement on Monday expressing satisfaction with the trial events held at the new hockey arena for the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics. Officials from both the league and the union visited the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena in Italy to observe test games on the ice surface while final touches are being made to dressing rooms and other amenities. Competition is scheduled to kick off for the women’s division on February 5 and the men’s division on February 11.
Acknowledging the challenges of dealing with a new ice surface and an arena still under construction, the NHL and NHLPA assured that efforts to address any remaining issues are ongoing. They emphasized their commitment to overseeing the situation closely and providing guidance to ensure that the tournament and playing conditions meet the standards expected by top players worldwide.
In Milan, optimism has been expressed by officials, including International Ice Hockey Federation president Luc Tardif, regarding the anticipated participation of NHL players in the forthcoming event. Despite concerns arising from the incomplete state of the rink less than a month before the Games’ commencement, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman noted satisfactory progress from the test events, although he acknowledged that there are still outstanding tasks to be completed.
Bettman, speaking from Buffalo, New York, where he announced that the Sabres will host the NHL draft in June, emphasized the continuous work being done to finalize the arena and ice conditions. While affirming the NHL’s role as invited participants and offering assistance and consultation, Bettman underscored the importance of ensuring optimal playing conditions for the players at the Olympics.
Looking ahead, Bettman expressed optimism about gaining a clearer understanding of the situation upon his arrival in Milan. Stressing the significance of players competing at their best in the Olympic setting, he highlighted the NHL’s commitment to allowing players to participate in the Games and emphasized the ultimate responsibility of the IOC and IIHF in addressing any outstanding concerns.
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