Chaos and Anticipation: NHL Stars Arrive for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan are already proving to be an event of logistical challenges, even before the opening ceremony. The arrival of NHL players on Sunday highlighted a series of unexpected hurdles, transforming a routine airport transfer into a chaotic scramble for media access.
A Runaround for Reporters
Initial reports indicated that hockey players arriving from New York would disembark in hall B of Milan’s Malpensa Airport. However, a last-minute change directed reporters to hall A, triggering a frantic dash across the airport. This was followed by another reversal, sending the media back to the original location in hall B. The confusion underscored the complexities of managing media access during the Games.
The situation drew attention from international press, with English, Finnish and Slovak languages audible amongst the reporters vying for position. Despite Slovakia having a smaller contingent of star players compared to other nations, their team still garnered significant media interest.
Slovak Players Speak
Upon finally gathering in hall B, seven Slovak players from the NHL – Martin Fehérváry, Erik Černák, Šimon Nemec, Juraj Slafkovský, Martin Pospíšil, Dalibor Dvorský, and Pavol Regenda – briefly addressed the press. Craig Ramsay, who will serve as a consultant to the Slovak team’s coach, was also present.
Šimon Nemec and Dalibor Dvorský were selected for short interviews. Nemec, a New Jersey Devils defenseman, emphasized the team’s determination. “We don’t have a lot of NHL players, but we have a good mix and will fight for a win in every game,” he stated. Dvorský, a St. Louis Blues prospect, expressed excitement and a lack of nervousness about his first senior international tournament.
From Pekin to Milan: A Shift in Expectations
Nemec and Slafkovský are returning to the Olympics after winning bronze in Beijing in 2022 as teenagers. Their roles have evolved significantly since then, transitioning from promising young talents to established NHL players. Nemec acknowledged the increased pressure but expressed a positive outlook.
Dvorský, having made his senior debut at the 2024 World Championships, anticipates a different experience in Milan. “This tournament will be different,” he noted, indicating a heightened level of competition and scrutiny.
A Glimpse of Other Teams
While the focus was on the Slovak team, reporters also caught glimpses of players from Canada and the Czech Republic as they navigated the airport. Players like Nathan MacKinnon, Nick Suzuki, and Mark Stone were observed, adding to the sense of anticipation surrounding the hockey tournament.
Milano Cortina 2026: Key Dates and Details
The 2026 Winter Olympics will officially accept place from February 6 to February 22, 2026, with competitions beginning on February 4, 2026. The Opening Ceremony will be held at the San Siro Stadium in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, marking the first time the ceremony will be held across multiple locations. The Closing Ceremony will take place at the Verona Arena on February 22, 2026.
The Games will feature 116 medal events across 16 sports, with approximately 2,900 athletes from 92-93 countries participating. Events will be spread across four main clusters in Northern Italy: Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Valtellina, and Val di Fiemme.
FAQ
Q: When do the 2026 Winter Olympics start?
A: February 6, 2026, with competitions beginning February 4, 2026.
Q: Where will the 2026 Winter Olympics be held?
A: Across Northern Italy, primarily in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Q: How many medal events will there be?
A: 116 medal events.
Pro Tip
Follow the official Milano Cortina 2026 website (https://milanocortina2026.coni.it/en/) for the most up-to-date schedule and event information.
What are your predictions for the hockey tournament? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
