In Milan, preparations for the upcoming Milano Cortina Olympics are facing challenges. The Milano Santagiulia hockey arena, intended to host its first hockey game and the world, is behind schedule and may not be completed on time.
Construction workers, wearing green and yellow safety vests, were seen leaving the site after a long day’s work. An older man named Michel operated a mobile cantina nearby, where workers gathered for post-shift espresso. Despite ongoing efforts, uncertainties linger regarding the arena’s readiness, including concerns about the smaller rink size compared to NHL standards and the ice quality.
Scheduled test events aim to assess the arena’s functionality, but questions remain about accessibility for players and spectators. The surrounding Santa Giulia neighborhood, undergoing urban development, presents a mix of old and new structures, reflecting a transitional phase. The area’s industrial remnants and unresolved development projects create a backdrop that challenges the arena’s visual appeal.
With construction debris and cranes dominating the site, the arena struggles to stand out amidst the surrounding urban landscape. Workers exiting the gates faced obstacles like broken glass and littered espresso cups, hinting at the unfinished state of the area. As the deadline approaches, the completion of the Milano Santagiulia arena remains uncertain, raising doubts about its readiness for the upcoming Olympic events.