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Critical failure during first Olympic rink test raises plenty of concerns ahead of Games
Photo credit: YouTube screenshot
The first test that was conducted on the ice that is supposed to be used for the hockey games at the Olympics had a huge hole in it, which raised red flags.
As the Milano Cortina Winter Games in 2026 approach, questions appear periodically about the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan. Questions about the dimensions of its ice surface remain, and new concerns are beginning to emerge.
The locker rooms at Santagiulia are not finished and will be temporary trailers, Sahar Hashemi explains. Access to the ice will be made through protective mats that one has to walk over.
ESPN's Emily Kaplan agrees that players in the NHL need to prepare themselves for harder travel as they move from one place to another in Milan.
What caused the first ice test to be postponed
The week's events were taken to another level as the first Olympic test event at the Santagiuliana Arena was postponed today due to a large hole that appeared on the ice.
An attempt to repair the ice using a watering can was made, which immediately raised concerns over the readiness of the venue for the event.
Despite this uncertainty, the NHL players are still intent on participating in the Olympics for the first time in over a decade.
In addition, all teams have agreed to reside within the Olympic Village, although there is no doubt that accommodations and sustenance will not meet NHL expectations.
Why these issues aren't affecting Matthew Tkachuk
Among the players expected to suit up for Team USA is Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk, who stated the issue with the arenas will not affect the team.
"I don't give a s---, I'm going over there," Tkachuk said on his "Wingmen" podcast. "Even if it's not safe, I still want to play."
- Matthew Tkachuk
- Matthew Tkachuk
The GM for the U.S. Men's team will be Bill Guerin, the president of Hockey Operations and GM for the Minnesota Wild, along with New York Rangers' Mike Sullivan, who will lead the team coaching staff.
The Women's tournament will commence on the 5th of February, followed by the Men's tournament on the 11th.
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| POLL | ||
JANVIER 9 | 96 ANSWERS Critical failure during first Olympic rink test raises plenty of concerns ahead of Games Will the ice hockey games at the Olympics need to be moved to a new venue? | ||
| Yes | 64 | 66.7 % |
| No | 32 | 33.3 % |
| List of polls | ||