NHL Commissioner Expresses Concerns Over Milan-Cortina Olympic Rink delays
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Updated: December 11, 2025, 01:48 PM ET
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman voiced concerns on Wednesday regarding the delayed construction of the main hockey rink for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-cortina, Italy. The delays, coupled with previously expressed concerns about ice quality and rink dimensions, are causing caution within the league as the games approach.
Construction Delays and Ice Quality
Speaking at the Winnipeg Jets’ facility, Bettman described the construction progress as “disappointing.” He noted that the current timeline is unprecedented in comparison to previous olympic games, stating, “I’m not trying to pile on on this, in all of the prior Olympics, whether thay built permanent or temporary facilities, it’s never been this late for a completion in the building of ice, and so that’s why we are cautious.” /id/40934888/nhl-commissioner-gary-bettman-expresses-concern-olympic-rink-delays”>https://www.espn.com/nhl/story//id/40934888/nhl-commissioner-gary-bettman-expresses-concern-olympic-rink-delays
Rink Dimensions and Future olympic Standards
Beyond the construction delays,the NHL also expressed surprise regarding the dimensions of the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena (16,000-seat) and the secondary Rho facility. These rinks are slightly wider and three feet shorter than the dimensions agreed upon by the NHL and the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).
While the current dimensions fall within IIHF standards, Daly confirmed that there is little that can be done to alter them for the 2026 games. However, the NHL and NHL players’ Association have communicated to the IIHF their expectation that the ice surface at the 2030 Winter Olympics in france will adhere to standard NHL size. Key Takeaways
* Construction Delays: The main hockey rink for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics is behind schedule, raising concerns from the NHL.
* Ice Quality Assurance: The NHL is sending experts to Italy to verify the safety and quality of the ice surface.
* Rink Dimensions: The Olympic rinks are slightly smaller than NHL standards, but within IIHF regulations.
* Future Olympics: The NHL is advocating for standard NHL ice dimensions at the 2030 winter Olympics in france.
The NHL’s participation in the Olympics is crucial for the event’s popularity and global reach. The league will continue to monitor the situation in Milan-Cortina closely,hoping for a timely resolution to the construction delays and assurance of a high-quality playing surface for its players. The focus now shifts to ensuring the February 2nd completion date is met and that the ice quality is up to NHL standards, while also solidifying agreements for future Olympic games to maintain a consistent playing experience.
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