The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) stated that the impact of the recent decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to reinstate Russia in international competitions has been severely underestimated. The federation emphasized that it remains opposed to this decision and is in discussions with national bodies, organizing committees, host authorities, and other key stakeholders to determine the best way forward.
Ban on Russia's Participation in International Competitions
Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the IIHF had banned Russian teams from participating in international ice hockey competitions, citing security concerns. In a ruling on Friday, the CAS stated that the IIHF's concerns were not based on sufficient evidence.
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Countries' Reactions to CAS Ruling
The IIHF's statement was released after two days of discussions in the federation's council, which sought to determine the way forward following the CAS decision. The two organizing committees referenced in the statement are those of Canada and Germany. Canada will host the IIHF Youth Championship next month, and Germany will host the IIHF Men's Championship in May. Both countries are strong supporters of Ukraine in its war with Russia and have serious concerns about their upcoming competitions.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Tuesday that he would not allow Russians to participate in the youth championship in Alberta. He told reporters, "As long as Russia and Belarus support this illegal and unjust war, none of these athletes can compete for their country in Canada."
Frank Lutz, President of the German Ice Hockey Federation, stated in a television interview that following the CAS decision, the DEB must also consider the option of revoking the hosting rights for this championship. He plans to raise this issue with government officials in Berlin.
The Finnish Ice Hockey Federation, the current world champion in the men's section, is leading an effort to boycott future IIHF competitions if Russians are allowed to compete. The board of the Finnish Ice Hockey Federation, Heikki Hietanen, stated, "We are working to create a united front to tell the IIHF that none of us will play against Russia under these circumstances."
Additionally, the ice hockey federations of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and the Czech Republic have expressed similar positions. In this regard, IIHF sponsors have also raised concerns, with major companies like Skoda and Nokian announcing that they would withdraw their support if Russia participates.
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