Ice hockey federation reiterates opposition to reinstatement of Russia

What the report says

The International Ice Hockey Federation said on Wednesday that it still disagrees with a Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling that ordered Russia to be reinstated in international hockey, citing what it described as major practical and sporting problems. Al Jazeera reported that the dispute follows last week’s CAS decision to overturn the federation’s ban on Russian teams, which had been imposed after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The IIHF said immediate reinstatement would raise issues including visas, entry rules, security planning, travel logistics and competition formats. The federation said it is continuing talks with national associations, host authorities and tournament organisers as it considers next steps. The issue is already affecting preparations for the men’s World Championships in Germany next year.

Several countries, including Norway, Denmark, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Latvia and Finland, have said their teams will not play Russia. Finland’s city of Turku has also threatened to withdraw as host of the 2028 World Junior Championship. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Russia and Belarus will not take part in the upcoming World Junior Championship in Alberta, prompting criticism from Moscow.

Al Jazeera also reported that Czech sponsor Skoda Auto said it would reassess its involvement if Russia is included in the tournament, saying such participation would conflict with its stated values. The sponsor’s warning adds to the wider backlash and increases uncertainty around the event’s organisation and commercial backing.