Diego Kostner is a new arrival in Milan. © FISG/Vanna Antonello

With a South Tyrolean: Milan makes a prominent signing

With five wins out of seven games, HC Milano has made a fantastic start to its first season in the ICE Hockey League. On Saturday afternoon, the Milanese team made further signings in the transfer market, bolstering their roster with some high-profile additions.

03 October 2026

From: dl

Diego Kostner Kostner is a new player for HC Milano. The 34-year-old from Val Gardena leaves Ambri-Piotta after ten years and joins an Italian club for the first time, having spent his entire career on Swiss ice. Kostner could make his ICE Hockey League debut as early as Sunday when Milan visits Red Bull Salzburg.

The transfer was finalized within a few hours, thanks in no small part to the national team player's strong motivation: "Everything happened very quickly," Kostner commented. "But given the situation that has arisen this year, I believe it's the right decision for me. The Milan project is very appealing, and I can't wait to get started. It's a city with a significant ice hockey history, and during the Olympic Games, I was able to experience the fans' incredible enthusiasm firsthand."

Kostner leaves Ambrì after ten years

After the record-breakingly quick completion of medical examinations and bureaucratic formalities, Kostner is currently on his way to Salzburg to join the "Rossoblù" team and, barring any unforeseen circumstances, to make his contribution: "I already know some of the players from the national team, and Shedden was my coach in Lugano many years ago. I don't think there will be any problems settling in. I'll arrive and go straight onto the ice – I'm highly motivated!"

Diego Kostner is moving to Milan. © Carola Fabrizia Semino

After leaving his home canton of Val Gardena at the age of 15 to gain his first experience with the Pikes Oberthurgau, Kostner moved to Lugano in 2009. There he progressed through the youth teams before making his debut in the NLA (National League A) and establishing himself as a versatile and team-oriented forward, playing an important role. He can be deployed both on the wing and at center.

After five seasons in the black and white jersey, Kostner moved to Ambrí-Piotta, where he distinguished himself for ten years through his commitment and tactical versatility. His career with the Italian national team is also extremely extensive: almost 200 appearances and ten World Championships in the Top Division and Division I to his name. His national team career reached its pinnacle with his participation in the Milano Cortina Olympic Games.