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EAA Welcomes Finland’s Nokia Arena and Italy’s Arena Milano As New Members

2022 NHL Global Series Finland Colorado Avalanche v Columbus Blue Jackets
A general view of Nokia Arena prior to the 2022 NHL Global Series Finland game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nokia Arena on November 5, 2022 in Tampere, Finland. (Photo by André Ringuette/NHLI via Getty Images)
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The European Arenas Association (EAA) announced today, May 20, that Nokia Arena in Tampere, Finland, and Arena Milano, currently under construction in the Italian city of Milan, have joined the association as new members.

“The incorporation of these venues to the EAA takes the total number of members to 41 arenas across 19 countries,” according to a press release.

Commenting on the new memberships, EAA President Olivier Toth said: “We are delighted to welcome Nokia Arena and Arena Milano, who represent the next generation of cutting-edge, multi-event arenas,” “Their addition to our network not only strengthens our association but also reflects the evolving landscape of world-class venues in Europe. These arenas bring innovation, versatility, and a forward-thinking approach to the industry, complementing the rich tapestry of expertise and experience within our existing membership. We look forward to the valuable insights and collaboration they will contribute to our growing network”

Marko Hurme, CEO of Nokia Arena: “As Finland’s premier multipurpose arena and one of Europe’s most modern sites, we are proud to be part of the EAA and to contribute to the sharing of knowledge and ideas and in particular to share our extensive expertise in the field of ice hockey.”

Nokia Arena, opened in 2021, serves as the home of Tappara and Ilves, two of Finland’s top ice hockey teams, and regularly hosts major national and international sporting events, concerts, and entertainment shows.

With a total capacity of 15,000, Nokia Arena offers “a premium spectator experience, featuring modern hospitality suites, advanced digital infrastructure, and a seamless integration with the surrounding cityscape. Positioned at the heart of Tampere’s vibrant urban development, it stands as a flagship venue in Northern Europe, setting new standards for arena innovation and sustainability,” according to the press release.

Luca Martinazzoli, general manager of Arena Milano, which is scheduled to be completed by end of this year, commented: “We are very pleased to be part of the EAA, as we prepare our opening for the Winter Olympics in February 2026. The EAA offers an opportunity for sharing experiences and knowledge that will help grow our industry and enhance the experience of our visitors.”

See: CTS Eventim Appoints Managing Director For Arena Milano In Italy

Arena Milano is being built by CTS Eventim to create Italy’s largest and most advanced indoor arena, designed for live entertainment and major sporting events.

The arena is located in Milan’s Santa Giulia district, and will have a total capacity of 16,036. It’s the official ice hockey venue for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.

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