The hockey rink will not be international or NHL sized

There is renewed excitement for Olympic hockey ahead of the Winter Games in Milan Cortina in February, especially when it comes to the United States. Team USA is in the hunt for a gold medal after narrowly falling to Canada in the competition 4 Nations Face-Offbut earning this global triumph may not be the player’s only concern.

The arena being built for the Olympics could contain ice surface which is smaller than the NHL uses, according to The Athletic’s Chris Johnston and Michael Russo.

The fact that Milan’s Santagiulia Arena is still under construction is already a bit of a concern, but this issue of dimensions raises safety concerns that might make some athletes think twice before deciding to compete in the Olympics. The International Hockey Federation has reportedly approved the 60-by-26-meter ice sheet, something the NHL did not expect based on previous agreements. Those proportions are more than three feet shorter, while only being “a hair’s breadth wider” than what is required by a major hockey league.

This isn’t just standard Olympic practice, for those wondering. NHL stars previously skated on a 60-meter surface during the Winter Games, but the 30-meter width is typically used in international competition. While there is little time for action — the Milan Cortina Olympics begin on February 6, 2026 — fans should expect the topic to be addressed.

The NHL Players’ Association is “investigating the matter,” according to the Athletic. There was an increased level of physicality at the 4 Nations Face-Off, as pride burned hot in Montreal’s Bell Center and Boston’s TD Garden back in February. Aside from the fights that broke out between the United States and Canada, there were a few big hits. When players travel at high speed, they need some space to reduce the risk of injury.

Time will tell if the Santagiulia Arena is a suitable venue for Olympic hockey, but the NHL’s antenna has certainly been raised.