Donald Trump Plans Visit to Milan: US Hockey Team to Play Decisive Role

Italian and French media report ongoing preparations for a visit by Donald Trump to Milan. Command centers and law enforcement agencies are already analyzing the logistical security for a potential arrival of Air Force One. The main reason for the visit is reportedly the final of the ice hockey tournament, scheduled for Sunday at 14:10. The US administration has indicated that the president will appear in Italy only if the USA team competes for the gold medal. Currently, the team must win two more crucial matches to secure a place in the final. The tradition of US presidents attending the Olympic Games dates back decades, although their visits are rarer during winter competitions held outside the United States. Italian security authorities, including the prefecture in Milan, are working on implementing special protective procedures. Reports from the newspaper „Corriere della Sera” indicate that operational planning has already begun, despite the lack of formal confirmation from Washington. The situation is dynamic, and the final decision will likely be made at the last minute, following the semi-final outcomes. For the organizers, the presence of a superpower leader is a major logistical challenge, requiring coordination with the Secret Service and local police, especially around the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena. 14:10 — start time of Sunday's hockey final A potential Trump visit is treated by the Italian side as a prestigious honor but also a serious burden for diplomatic protocol. Media emphasize that Trump, who will then be 79 years old, is a known enthusiast of sporting events, and the success of the red, white, and blue team provides him with an excellent opportunity to display patriotism. All diplomatic steps are currently on hold until the sports results are clarified, casting doubt on the final shape of the presidential schedule for February 2026.