### NHL and NHLPA Express Optimism Following Successful Test Events at Milan's Olympic Hockey Arena The National Hockey League (NHL) and the NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) have expressed satisfaction with the recent test events held at the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan, which is set to host hockey competitions during the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics. The test events, which took place over the weekend, were crucial in assessing the ice quality and overall readiness of the venue, which has faced construction delays. Both organizations are optimistic about the arena's completion and the participation of NHL players in the Olympics, marking their return to the Games after a decade-long absence. *However, concerns about safety and the final touches on the facility remain.* [https://www.nbcsports.com/nhl/news/nhl-and-nhlpa-say-theyre-pleased-after-test-events-at-new-olympic-hockey-arena-in-milan][https://apnews.com/article/winter-olympics-hockey-bc06a120c86362df4b67214403b7d873]. ### Overview of the Situation and Key Developments 1. **Test Events and Feedback**: The NHL and NHLPA were present during the test events, which provided valuable insights into the arena's ice surface and construction status. Officials from both organizations released a joint statement expressing their satisfaction with the outcomes of these events [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/nhl_nhlpa_pleased_with_progress_of_olympic_hockey_rink_construction_in_italy/s1_16958_43323423]. 2. **Construction Progress**: The Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena is reported to be mostly ready, although some areas, such as locker rooms, still require work. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has praised the progress made, indicating that the venue is on track to be fully operational for the Olympics [https://apnews.com/article/hockey-milan-cortina-olympics-nhl-709925052cb9612f1876293ded5262e1][https://wtop.com/sports/2026/01/ioc-happy-as-new-milan-cortina-hockey-arena-almost-ready-to-welcome-nhl-players]. 3. **Confidence in NHL Participation**: Key figures, including IIHF President Luc Tardif, have expressed confidence that NHL players will participate in the tournament as scheduled, despite previous concerns regarding safety and ice quality [https://thehockeynews.com/news/latest-news/iihf-president-luc-tardif-and-olympic-leaders-give-approval-of-santagiulia-venue][https://www.fox41yakima.com/nhl-players-will-complete-at-olympics-says-international-ice-hockey-chief]. 4. **Ongoing Monitoring**: The NHL and NHLPA plan to continue monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to provide consultation as needed to ensure that all remaining issues are addressed before the Games commence [https://frontofficesports.com/nhl-union-pleased-with-olympic-arena-progress]. ### Evidence of Progress and Remaining Challenges - **Construction Status**: The Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena is nearly complete, with most seating in place and essential facilities being finalized. However, some areas still resemble a construction site, indicating that work is ongoing [https://gazette.com/2026/01/11/ioc-happy-as-new-hockey-arena-almost-ready-to-welcome-nhl-players][https://www.abdpost.com/winter-olympics-organizers-reveal-huge-update-on-hockey-arena/419917]. - **Test Event Outcomes**: The test events were deemed successful, providing critical insights into the ice quality and overall venue readiness. This positive feedback has bolstered confidence among stakeholders regarding the NHL's participation [https://d2698.cms.socastsrm.com/2026/01/11/olympics-delayed-milan-ice-hockey-arena-earns-ioc-praise-ahead-of-nhl-return]. ### Conclusion: A Positive Outlook Amidst Challenges In summary, the NHL and NHLPA are optimistic about the upcoming Winter Olympics, particularly regarding the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena's readiness. Key points include: 1. **Successful Test Events**: The recent test events have provided valuable insights and positive feedback regarding the arena's ice quality and construction status. 2. **Ongoing Construction**: While the venue is mostly ready, some areas still require attention, but progress is being made. 3. **Confidence in NHL Participation**: Stakeholders, including the IOC and IIHF, are confident that NHL players will participate in the Olympics, despite previous concerns. 4. **Monitoring and Support**: The NHL and NHLPA will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to ensure all issues are resolved before the Games. **Overall, the situation appears to be improving, with a strong likelihood that the NHL will return to the Olympics, provided that final preparations are completed satisfactorily.** [https://www.livemint.com/sports/olympic-organizers-100-confident-nhl-will-play-in-milan-cortina-despite-arena-delays/amp-11767989183774.html][https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/winter-olympic-organisers-insist-ice-hockey-arena-ready-despite-hole-in-rink].