In November 2023, it was announced that the arena would undergo renovation in 2024, including the construction of an ice rink that meets international standards, with a length of 60 meters and a width of 30 meters. The project, presented by the mayor, received support from
Yuzuru Hanyu, a
two-time Olympic champion. On July 5th, 2025, the renovated Xebio Arena Sendai opened. Sendai City, in partnership with major sports retailer Xebio Holdings, established this year-round ice rink to provide better training facilities for skaters. The new ice rink is the only one in Miyagi prefecture that meets international standards and can host official figure skating competitions. The opening ceremony was held on July 5th, 2025. The ice show "The First Skate," featuring professional figure skaters
Yuzuru Hanyu,
Akiko Suzuki,
Rika Hongo, and
Takeshi Honda, took place on the inaugural day. The sold-out ice show drew widespread attention, receiving more than 30,000 applications for 3,378 available seats and attracting coverage from 39 media outlets. ==Sports events==