The President of the International Ice Hockey Federation, Luc Tardif, is optimistic about the upcoming return of NHL players to the Olympics, despite facing some construction delays at the main arena. Tardif expressed confidence that the tournament will be exceptional, even though certain parts of the rink may not be fully completed on time. However, essential areas such as the playing surface, practice facilities, and dressing rooms will be prepared for the men’s event scheduled to commence at the Milan Cortina Games on February 11.
The women’s tournament is set to begin on February 5, preceding the men’s competition.
Tardif mentioned that the arena, known as Hockey 1, will have a capacity slightly below his initial expectations, with seating for 11,800 spectators. The last time NHL players participated in the Olympics was in 2014.
The 2026 Winter Olympics start in February, but the hockey rink where medal games will be played is still under construction. NHL officials have said they’ll pull their players from the Olympics if the ice isn’t safe.
Tardif stated that he, along with NHL and NHL Players’ Association officials, will be traveling to Italy later this week to attend a test event at the venue in preparation for the upcoming tournament.
Bill Daly, the Deputy Commissioner of the NHL, previously announced that the league will withdraw its players from the Olympics if any safety concerns arise regarding the ice conditions.