Finnish PM Backs Denying Visas to Russian Athletes

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has said that measures are being prepared, both nationally and through international cooperation, that would make it possible to refuse visas to Russian athletes. The step would cover all sports, not just ice hockey, and comes as Russia moves to return to international competition while its war against Ukraine continues, according to Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

Background

Last week, reports emerged that Russia is returning to ice hockey world championships. The reason is a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which decided that the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) must allow Russia back into international tournaments. In response, the Finnish Ice Hockey Association said on Monday evening that Finland will not play against Russia as long as the war in Ukraine continues.

Orpo called the federation's decision firm. He said the type of sport makes no difference when it comes to visas and refusing them.

Next steps

The prime minister said work is proceeding on a tight timeline. The Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union will consider the matter in the coming days at Finland's initiative. Orpo stressed that quick decisions must be possible in this situation.

Earlier, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said Russian athletes do not belong in Finland next year if their country continues its war of aggression against Ukraine.

The European Commission opposes the "normalisation" of Russian and Belarusian athletes' participation in international competitions while Russia's war against Ukraine continues. However, the final decision on admitting Russian hockey national teams rests with the International Ice Hockey Federation.