Germany is hopeful about hosting the Men's Ice Hockey World Championship in May 2024, despite obstacles arising from a recent ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) that favored Russia's return to international competitions.
Obstacles from the CAS ruling
German government spokesman, Stefan Kornius, announced in Berlin that negotiations with the German Ice Hockey Federation (DEB) and other bodies indicate that Russia's participation in this tournament could make hosting the World Championship "virtually impossible." This comes as several hockey-playing countries, including Finland, Sweden, and the Czech Republic, have stated they will avoid facing Russia in any match where they are allowed to participate.
Hope for a diplomatic solution
In light of these developments, German officials are still seeking diplomatic solutions to ensure that the World Championship can be held as planned in the cities of Gelsenkirchen, Mannheim, and Düsseldorf. Stefan Kornius stated: "Our goal should be to hold the tournament as scheduled. However, given the sanctions that will arise after Russia's return to competitions, this will be virtually impossible. Therefore, we intend to explore through dialogue how we can ensure that this tournament takes place."
In this context, DEB President Frank Lutz has acknowledged that Germany may have to consider other options, including the possibility of withdrawing from hosting. In response to a question about visa issuance for the Russian team, a spokesman for the German Ministry of the Interior said that this matter would be difficult due to current restrictions.
Given the current situation, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has firmly stated that Russian players cannot participate in the Under-20 World Championship in Alberta. He said: "In a situation where Russia and Belarus are supporting an illegal and unjustified war in Ukraine, none of these athletes can compete for their countries in Canada."
This comes as the Women's Ice Hockey World Championship, which is not affected by the CAS ruling, has begun in Denmark, and time is passing for the start of the Under-20 World Championship in Alberta on December 26.
