Ice Hockey: IIHF Defies CAS Ruling on Russian Return
The federation cites logistical hurdles as six nations announce boycotts of the 2027 World Championship in Germany.
By Lucas Sheridan ·
The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has maintained its stance against reinstating Russian national teams, acting in defiance of a recent decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The CAS ordered the return of Russian teams last week, reversing an exclusion imposed after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite the legal directive, the IIHF stated on Wednesday that immediate reintegration creates substantial practical and sporting difficulties.
In a formal statement, the federation detailed specific obstacles, including visa and entry requirements, security provisions, and logistical constraints. The IIHF also noted potential consequences for competition formats. The organization said it remains in dialogue with national associations, host authorities, and tournament organizers to determine the next steps.
Resistance to the ruling has spread among national federations and governments ahead of the 2027 men's World Championships in Germany. Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and the Czech Republic announced that their teams will refuse to play against Russia. Latvia and Finland subsequently joined this boycott. Additionally, the Finnish city of Turku threatened to withdraw from its hosting duties for the 2028 World Junior Championship.
Political figures have also intervened in the dispute. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared that Russia and Belarus would be barred from the upcoming World Junior Championship in Alberta. In response, Russian ambassador Oleg Stepanov told the state-run news agency TASS that Canada was bringing politics into junior hockey.
Commercial pressure is mounting on the governing body. Skoda Auto, the main sponsor of the ice hockey world championships, announced on Wednesday that it would reassess its sponsorship if Russia participates. Skoda, a unit of Germany's Volkswagen, has served as the official main sponsor since 1993. The company also supports the Tour de France cycling race.
In a statement to the AFP news agency, Skoda said it would take further action if the Russian national team takes part in the tournament. The company described Russia's return as incompatible with its consistently upheld values. Skoda spokeswoman Ivana Povolna declined to disclose the annual financial commitment to the ice hockey event.
According to Skoda's 2025 annual report, the company provided 45 electric vehicles to tournament organizers. Its designers also produced the crystal trophy awarded to the most valuable player of the competition.
