Several countries refuse to play Russia if it returns to IIHF tournaments

Ice hockey federations in several countries have said their national teams will not play Russia if it is allowed back into tournaments run by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF). The reaction follows a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) that calls for restoring Russia's participation in international hockey tournaments. Russia has been excluded from these competitions over its war of aggression against Ukraine.

Reaction from countries and companies

Euronews reports that the hockey federations of six countries – Latvia, Finland, Norway, Czechia, Denmark and Sweden – have said their teams will not play the Russian side. The Austrian Ice Hockey Federation said it supports other countries' decisions and is analysing whether to join the boycott. Its head, Alexander Helwig, told broadcaster ORF: "under the current circumstances we definitely will not play against Russia."

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Russia's junior team will not be issued entry visas. It therefore cannot take part in the men's U-20 World Championship, which begins in Canada at the end of December.

Several companies have threatened to end their IIHF sponsorship if Russia competes while the war continues. Czech carmaker Skoda, part of the Volkswagen group, said it will review its support. Nokian Tyres and furniture maker AJ Products have issued similar warnings.

IIHF position

After an emergency meeting of its council, the IIHF said it still disagrees with the CAS ruling. The federation will analyse developments and the possible effects on the IIHF World Championship, and says the global impact of the decision has not been properly assessed. Its council will continue talks with national associations, tournament organisers and host-country governments to decide how to proceed. More information is promised in the coming days.

Russia's response

Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarov told the TASS agency he expects Russia to be awarded points for a win in every game boycotted by opponents. He threatened to complain about the boycotts to the International Olympic Committee.