With less than a month before the start of the Winter Olympics in Milan, the arena slated to host a premier event remained an active construction site. The Santa Giulia Arena, intended for ice hockey matches, faced significant delays, raising concerns about its readiness for the Games.

During a test event held last weekend, portions of the venue were inaccessible to spectators. Two levels were blocked off, with rows of seats covered by black plastic. Paint splatters marked the floors, construction dust coated railings, and exposed wires protruded from walls. Digital scoreboards were not yet installed, highlighting the extent of the remaining work.

The tight timeline contrasts sharply with previous Winter Olympics. In both China and South Korea, organizers held test matches on the rinks a full year in advance. However, in Milan, the first hockey players took to the ice just 28 days before the opening ceremony. "This one was a bit tight," said Art Sutherland, of the International Olympic Committee.

The delays in construction underscore the challenges of large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly when faced with tight deadlines and complex logistical considerations. The situation also highlights the pressure on organizers to deliver venues on time and within budget, while maintaining quality and safety standards.

As of this week, construction crews were working to complete the remaining tasks, including the installation of scoreboards, finishing the seating areas, and addressing the cosmetic issues. The organizers expressed confidence that the arena would be ready for the start of the Winter Olympics, but acknowledged the need for intensive efforts in the coming weeks. The successful completion of the Santa Giulia Arena is critical for the overall success of the Milan Winter Olympics, and its progress will be closely monitored in the days leading up to the Games.