Donald Trump congratulates the US hockey team on their Olympic gold medal win, following a final match in Milan attended by notable Italian politicians.
The Arena Santagiulia in Milan has officially closed its doors after hosting the last ice hockey game of the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Games, which ended in dramatic fashion with the US team securing a gold medal against Canada in a closely contested match. President Donald Trump, who was initially expected to attend the final game, celebrated the US team's victory from the White House, expressing his congratulations on social media. The win was particularly significant as it marked the closure of the arena after a successful run of Olympic events.
The final match was attended by a host of prominent Italian figures, including Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, Senate President Ignazio La Russa, Sports Minister Andrea Abodi, and Milan Mayor Beppe Sala. Their presence underscored the importance of the event within the context of Italy's preparations for the upcoming Winter Olympics. Giovanni Malagò, president of the Foundation 2026, highlighted the successful completion of the Olympic facilities amidst earlier concerns about the quality of the ice and venue readiness.
As Arena Santagiulia prepares to reopen in May with a concert by famous Italian singer Ligabue, the event also marked a crucial moment for Milan's Olympic legacy, showcasing the city's investment in both sports and culture. The positive outcome of the event indicates a bright future for the Olympic venues in Milan and sets a promising precedent as Italy gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics, ensuring that the facilities meet international standards and provide exceptional experiences for athletes and fans alike.
