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Finland to tighten restrictions on Russian athletes after Moscow’s expected return to world ice hockey
Finland is preparing to tighten rules that currently allow Russian athletes to enter the country for sporting events. The move follows a ruling by the world’s top sports court that Russia must be allowed back into international ice hockey tournaments, a decision that has drawn threats of boycotts and criticism from several countries.
Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said the amendments were being prepared quickly after a meeting between the government and President Alexander Stubb, and reiterated that Russia must end its war against Ukraine. Finland already stopped issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens after the 2022 invasion, but a sports-contest exemption remains. Finnish officials say changes are being drafted; meanwhile, EU-wide restrictions are under discussion, with a possible 22nd sanctions package reportedly expected as soon as 11 November.
In short
- Finland is drafting tighter entry rules for Russian athletes.
- Current rules retain an exemption for sports competitions.
- EU-wide measures may also be under consideration.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Finland can argue that sporting access is a privilege that should not be treated as separate from Russia’s war against Ukraine. Tightening the exemption would align entry rules with the country’s existing restrictions, avoid lending legitimacy to Russian participation, and signal solidarity with Ukraine while broader European measures are considered.
The case against
Critics can argue that restricting athletes’ entry risks turning sport into a tool of collective punishment, limiting individuals who may not control or support their government’s actions. They may also contend that international sport should follow the ruling of its governing court and remain a channel for competition across political divides, with any safeguards focused on specific conduct rather than nationality.
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