Thirty years of Cornèr Arena, the heart of Lugano's sports and events scene.

On September 23, 1995, with the inauguration ceremony of the new Resega ice rink—now known as the Cornèr Arena —Lugano officially began a new chapter in its sporting and cultural history. Thirty years later, the facility managed by the city's Sports Division continues to be a key hub for ice sports, skating, cultural events, and major events.

From its origins to its transformation into a modern arena

The history of the Resega begins in 1957, when engineer Pino Pedrolini, with the advice of Beat Rüedi and Geo Mantegazza—a key figure in Swiss hockey—built the first open-air artificial rink. Twenty years later, it was covered, and between 1986 and 1991, the Lugano ice rink hosted the first four national titles of Hockey Club Lugano.

A home for HCL and beyond

Originally capable of holding up to 8,000 spectators, the Cornèr Arena now seats 6,733, including 1,850 standing, thanks to modernization efforts sponsored by Hockey Club Lugano. The facility features hospitality areas, a giant screen, and upgraded seats, meeting international professional hockey standards.

A center that lives seven days a week

The Cornèr Arena's activities extend far beyond HCL matches. Twelve locker rooms, two ice rinks, and near-continuous occupancy, from 8 a.m. until late at night, make it a true sports hub. The HCL's youth section currently has 21 teams and over 400 boys and girls, while the Lugano Skating Club organizes nationally renowned competitions. The ice rink is also open to schools and the public, with spaces dedicated to free skating and equipment rentals accessible to people with disabilities.

A look into the future

According to Marco Werder, CEO of Hockey Club Lugano, the main challenge will be to remain competitive not only on the ice, but also in the overall spectator experience: services, entertainment, and comfort. In this sense, the opening of the new Sigirino facility will allow for the better distribution of youth activities, easing the intensive use of the Cornèr Arena.

Corner Arena: a story that continues

Thirty years after its ribbon-cutting, the Cornèr Arena has lost none of its centrality. It remains a place where sport, culture, and community intertwine, confirming its position as one of the most significant venues in Ticino. A place that, through memory and innovation, continues to tell the story of Lugano on the ice and beyond.