Canadian government official confirms visa denial of Russian players for 2027 World Juniors

The Canadian government has officially informed Hockey Canada and the IIHF that it will not issue visas to Russian players for the upcoming World Junior Championship in Alberta. Furthermore, Russian players already holding Canadian visas will also be barred from participating, even under a neutral flag. The move aligns with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's statement that Russia will not take part in the tournament set to begin December 26 in Edmonton and Red Deer.

This government decision follows a Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling that previously stated the Russian Ice Hockey Federation must be allowed to compete in IIHF events. While Norway was initially set to be replaced by Russia to accommodate that ruling, the visa denials are expected to force Russia out and restore Norway to the tournament field.