Story perspectives

NHL Players Set for 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan

1/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan will include NHL players for the first time since 2014.
NHL officials reported satisfaction with a recent test event, despite ongoing construction delays and ice quality concerns at the Santagiulia Arena.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expects necessary work to be completed on time, despite existing challenges.
IIHF President Luc Tardif and IOC Sports Director Pierre Ducrey expressed confidence in venue readiness, although some areas may not be fully finished before the tournaments start on February 5 for women and February 11 for men.

History

Historical Context

The 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, held from February 7 to 23, marked the last participation of NHL players, with 12 countries competing. The Games, which became the most expensive Olympics at $51 billion, faced criticism over Russia's state-sponsored doping program. As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan approaches, restoring NHL player participation remains a key goal for international hockey relations.

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Story summary

The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan will include NHL players for the first time since 2014.
NHL officials reported satisfaction with a recent test event, despite ongoing construction delays and ice quality concerns at the Santagiulia Arena.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expects necessary work to be completed on time, despite existing challenges.
IIHF President Luc Tardif and IOC Sports Director Pierre Ducrey expressed confidence in venue readiness, although some areas may not be fully finished before the tournaments start on February 5 for women and February 11 for men.

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