IIHF president Luc Tardif voiced optimism about the Milan Olympic hockey arena's readiness for the 2026 Winter Games, despite construction delays that previously drew NHL disappointment. At a World Juniors press conference, he confirmed essential infrastructure like ice, dressing rooms, and practice areas will be prepared, paving the way for NHL players' return after a 12-year absence.
International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) president Luc Tardif addressed Milan arena delays—initially flagged by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman as 'disappointing' in December due to unfinished construction and absent ice—at a press conference ahead of the World Juniors medal games on January 5, 2026, in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Acknowledging tight timelines that caused 'sleepless nights,' Tardif stressed the tournament will proceed as planned. "We're going to have a tournament in this building," he said. "The infrastructure for ice hockey — the dressing rooms, the practice area and the field of play — that's going to be ready."
The women's event starts February 5, 2026, and men's February 11 at Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena (also called Hockey 1), which will operate at reduced 11,800-seat capacity—'a little bit short' but adequate. While IIHF does not manage construction (handled by IOC and Milan organizers), Tardif, NHL, and NHLPA officials will attend the key test event January 9-11. NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly has reiterated non-participation if ice safety falters, with league technicians monitoring progress.
NHL involvement revives Olympic presence absent since 2014, after 2018 and 2022 opt-outs. Tardif affirmed: "We can be confident on that. You're not going to go to Milano for nothing."
The presser also covered low World Juniors attendance (167,657 total, averaging 6,209 per game), blamed on weather, geopolitics, and venues, though USA Hockey expects over 200,000 with strong local support.
