IOC Expresses Satisfaction as Milan Cortina Hockey Arena Approaches Completion
MILAN (AP) -- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is impressed by the progress of the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, a key venue for the Milan Cortina Games. Despite ongoing construction, the arena is nearly ready to host NHL players, marking a significant milestone in the event's preparation.
The arena, which will be a focal point for the games, is set to welcome NHL players back to the Olympics after a decade. However, the journey to this point has been challenging due to construction delays and other concerns.
The IOC's Executive Director, Christophe Dubi, praised the venue's progress, noting the extraordinary seating bowl and the arena's overall impressive appearance. He acknowledged the challenges faced but expressed confidence in the experts' work and the thorough oversight provided.
The NHL had previously raised concerns about ice quality, with deputy commissioner Bill Daly stating that the league would not send players if safety was an issue. The IOC shared these worries but remained steadfast in its planning and execution. Dubi assured that the best engineers and ice masters were involved, dispelling any doubts about the arena's readiness.
A three-day test event, the final league and cup games of the domestic season, was held at the arena, with three matches a day on Saturday and Sunday. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and the NHL delegation were present, simulating Olympic conditions. The IIHF President, Luc Tardif, expressed satisfaction with the ice quality and the overall test, confident that the NHL will return to the Olympics for the first time since 2014.
Players, including Canadian James Livingston, were pleased with the ice quality, confident that NHL players would adapt and enjoy the competition. The men's Olympic hockey tournament is scheduled for February 11-22, while the women's tournament will take place from February 5-19.
The IOC's satisfaction and the arena's near-completion signal a significant step forward in the Milan Cortina Games' preparation, despite the initial challenges.
