When the 2026 Winter Olympics open, hockey fans will find the ice a bit smaller – a 60‑meter‑long, 26‑meter‑wide rink that is more than three feet shorter than NHL regulation.
Ice Dimensions That Differ
Men’s and women’s games at two Milan arenas will be played on rinks measuring 60 meters by 26 meters (196.85‑by‑85.3 feet). The NHL’s official size is 200 by 85 feet (60.96 by 25.908 meters), meaning the Olympic ice is slightly wider and over three feet shorter. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) approved the Milan rinks, noting they fit one of the federation’s standard sizes and had previously been used by the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators for two games in Stockholm in November.
Historical Context of Olympic Rink Size
Olympic hockey has alternated between international and NHL dimensions. In 1998, 2006, and 2014 the games were played on 60‑by‑30‑meter ice (196.85‑by‑98.4 feet). A slight variation occurred in Salt Lake City 2002, while Vancouver 2010 used NHL‑sized rinks because of the existing arenas. The IIHF switched to NHL dimensions for the 2018 Games and used them again in 2022. The 2026 Games mark the first time NHL players will compete at the Olympics since 2014 in Sochi.
IIHF’s Confirmation and Reassurances
On Monday, the IIHF confirmed the different size was in place in Milan without providing an explanation. The federation stated: \
\”While these dimensions differ slightly from a typical NHL rink, they are consistent with IIHF regulations, match the rink size used at the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games and are fully consistent with the dimensions the NHL requires as part of its Global Series Game arena specifications,\” the federation said. \
\”All involved, the IIHF, the Organizing Committee, NHL, NHLPA, IOC and the relevant venue authorities agree that the differences in rink specifications are insignificant, and should not impact either the safety or quality of game play.\”
Reactions From Teams and Coaches
Finland men’s hockey general manager Jere Lehtinen told the Associated Press, \
\”It’s the same for every team, and I think that’s the bottom line.\” He added, \
\”Our coaches, maybe it’s more interesting and something you need to pay attention more.\”
Canada’s general manager Doug Armstrong first mentioned the slightly off NHL size on a podcast in early September and revisited the topic in October. Assistant coach Peter DeBoer raised the issue on a radio show, questioning why the rinks were not NHL‑sized. Canada’s men’s assistant coach Bruce Cassidy remarked last week, \
\”We’re aware that they’re behind schedule a little bit, but we’re all assuming that that’ll all be taken care of.\”
Player Spotlight
Auston Matthews, a forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL, also represents Team USA internationally. Team USA women’s captain Hilary Knight, a 10‑time world champion and four‑time Olympic medalist, has been dubbed the “queen of the ice” in the run‑up to the Games.
Venue Construction and Test Events
The Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, a new 16,000‑seat venue on the outskirts of Milan, is being finished to the wire. Organizers told the AP that there was \
\”no plan B.\”
A test event had to be moved to the Rho Ice Hockey Arena, and new test events at the main venue aren’t scheduled until Jan. 9‑11—less than a month before the first puck is dropped. Workers on Friday were still putting the finishing touches to the Rho venue, just three days before the start of the IIHF Group B Under 20 World Championship that will serve as a test event.
Logistics Concerns from the NHL
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman repeatedly voiced logistics concerns. At the league’s annual fall Board of Governors meeting in October, he said: \
\”We are constrained in what we can and can’t do, request and demand and if it reached a certain point, we’ll have to deal with it. But I’m not speculating, and we’ve been constantly assured by the IOC and the IIHF that it will be OK.\”
Tournament Schedule
The men’s Olympic hockey tournament will run from Feb. 11‑22, while the women’s competition will take place from Feb. 5‑19.
Key Takeaways
- Olympic ice in 2026 measures 60 m × 26 m, slightly wider and over three feet shorter than NHL regulation.
- The IIHF confirms the dimensions match those used in Beijing 2022 and are consistent with NHL Global Series specifications.
- NHL players will return to Olympic play after a 12‑year absence, with the men’s tournament scheduled for Feb. 11‑22.
The 2026 Games will showcase how a modest change in rink size can coexist with the return of NHL talent, while the venue construction race and logistical challenges add another layer of intrigue to the historic event.
Hi, I’m Ethan R. Coleman, a dedicated journalist and content creator at newsoflosangeles.com — your trusted source for the latest news, insights, and stories from Los Angeles and beyond.
With over 7 years of experience in digital media, I specialize in reporting on breaking news, local culture, community affairs, and impactful events shaping the City of Angels. My passion lies in telling stories that matter — stories that inform, engage, and empower readers.
At newsoflosangeles.com, I focus on delivering accurate, unbiased, and timely content while keeping our audience at the heart of every story. Whether it’s the latest city developments, cultural highlights, or human-interest stories, I aim to bring clarity, context, and credibility to every piece I publish.
When I’m not reporting, you’ll likely find me exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, meeting locals, and discovering new stories worth telling.
Stay connected, stay informed — and thanks for being part of our community at newsoflosangeles.com.
