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CAS says IIHF didn’t provide sufficient evidence to prevent Russia from playing in international tournaments

Multiple nations have already announced they would boycott playing against Russia in tournament competition, with multiple sponsors also threatening to pull out if action isn’t taken.

Published: Thursday, 5 November 2026 at 4:30 PM
CAS says IIHF didn’t provide sufficient evidence to prevent Russia from playing in international tournaments
Key Things to Know
  • CAS ruled the IIHF lacked sufficient legal evidence to bar Russian teams from international ice hockey tournaments.
  • The ruling permits Russia to enter IIHF events, including the 2027 World Junior Championship in Alberta.
  • Multiple nations and sponsors have threatened to boycott competitions if Russian teams are allowed to participate.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Court of Arbitration for Sport stated that the International Ice Hockey Federation failed to present sufficient evidence to legally ban Russian teams from international competition. Following a ruling published on Oct. 30, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation is permitted to enter tournaments, including the upcoming 2027 World Junior Championship in Alberta. Russia had previously faced a ban since early 2022 due to the invasion of Ukraine.

Several nations and sponsors have threatened boycotts against Russian participation, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Russians will not be permitted to play in the tournament. CAS clarified it could not impose unrequested neutrality measures because the IIHF did not substantiate or seek them during arbitration proceedings.

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