IIHF Extends Ban on Russian Teams for Next Season's World Championships
The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has extended the ban on Russian national teams from participating in several world championships next season, maintaining the disqualification imposed after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The IIHF Council, after re-evaluating each tournament individually, has decided to prohibit Russian teams from competing in next season's World Championships. The ban applies to the Men's World Championship, the World Junior Championship, and the U-18 World Championship for both men and women. The possibility of Russia's participation in the Women's World Championship will be reviewed again in November.
In January, Russia's disqualification was extended, but the Russian Hockey Federation appealed the decision. The IIHF Disciplinary Committee overturned the earlier ruling that had barred Russian teams. However, after further review, the Council decided to uphold the ban.
Russian teams have been disqualified from IIHF competitions since February 2022, when Russia launched its renewed invasion of Ukraine. During this time, they have missed five consecutive world championships and the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan and Cortina.
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