Hockey, a prominent Winter Olympics event, is set to feature NHL players for the first time in over a decade on ice that is slightly smaller than the standard NHL size. The rinks in Milan where the men’s and women’s games will be held measure 196.85 feet in length by 85.3 feet in width, compared to the NHL’s 200 by 85 feet dimensions.
The International Ice Hockey Federation has approved the Milan rinks, which adhere to one of the standard sizes set by the governing body. This rink size was previously used by the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators for two games in Stockholm in November.
While the NHL dimensions were adopted for the Olympics in 2018 and 2022, the 2026 Games will mark the return of NHL players since the 2014 Sochi Olympics. The IIHF confirmed on Monday that the Milan rinks’ size differs slightly from the NHL standard but aligns with IIHF regulations and the rink used at the Beijing 2022 Winter Games.
Both the IIHF and relevant authorities have emphasized that the differences in rink specifications should not impact player safety or the quality of gameplay. Previous Olympic hockey tournaments have seen variations in ice sizes, with the Vancouver 2010 Games being played on NHL-sized ice due to existing arenas.
Teams and officials, including Canada’s general manager Doug Armstrong and Finland’s general manager Jere Lehtinen, have acknowledged the differences in ice dimensions and are preparing accordingly. The ice dimensions at both hockey arenas for the upcoming Olympics in Milan will remain consistent, with the main venue still under construction.
Organizers have faced challenges with the construction schedule, leading to concerns over the readiness of the venues. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has raised logistical concerns but has been assured by the IOC and IIHF that the situation will be resolved.
The men’s hockey tournament is scheduled from Feb. 11-22, while the women’s tournament will run from Feb. 5-19. Test events are being conducted to ensure the venues are prepared for the upcoming games.