Milan Olympics 2026: A venue problem could turn into a player problem fast

A report making the rounds Thursday says DeBoer believes the Olympic ice at the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena will be suitable. The same report notes key amenities like locker rooms and concessions are not fully ready yet.

That tracks with what people saw at the recent test event in Milan, where the NHL and NHLPA called it a useful trial run even with construction still everywhere. Reuters also noted unfinished locker rooms and temporary areas, plus a brief ice issue during one game.

Fans tend to shrug at «concessions,» but players do not, because logistics shape performance. If your dressing room setup is temporary, your warmups, recovery, and equipment rhythm all get harder.

This is also where Gary Bettman's shadow creeps in, because the league has always treated Olympics participation like a business decision first. The NHL, NHLPA, and IIHF have agreements in place for 2026 and 2030, but the message has been consistent, safety and readiness are non-negotiable.

As a fan, I want best on best so badly, but I do not want it delivered with circus conditions.

If Milan looks messy on the world stage, it hands ammunition to anyone who would rather keep NHLers home next cycle. Even with a 2030 plan on paper, the league can always squeeze, delay, or posture when it feels boxed in.

The fix is simple in theory and brutal in practice, finish the essentials, lock in clean travel routines, and make the building feel like a real major event arena. The installations have to be on point, because Bettman will not accept «close enough.»

If Santagiulia gets there, Milano 2026 can be a hockey celebration instead of a facilities story, and that is the milestone everyone wants next.