# Leading ice hockey nations, sponsors oppose Russia’s return

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/leading-ice-hockey-nations-sponsors-oppose-russias-return/
- Published: 2026-11-04T13:27:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-05T10:54:47+00:00
- Original publisher: DW (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.dw.com/en/leading-ice-hockey-nations-sponsors-oppose-russia-s-return/a-79853742?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
- Topics: Europe, World

## Key points

- CAS ruled the IIHF must reinstate Russia.
- Several countries say they will not play Russian teams.
- Canada and Germany are reassessing upcoming tournaments.

## Summary

The IIHF says the practical and sporting consequences of a court ruling requiring Russia’s return to international ice hockey were underestimated. Several leading national associations say they will refuse to play Russian teams while Russia’s war against Ukraine continues, putting pressure on the federation to decide how to proceed.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled that the IIHF’s security concerns lacked sufficient evidence, overturning a ban imposed after Russia’s 2022 invasion. Canada’s prime minister says Russian athletes will not compete at next month’s World Junior Championship, while Germany is considering whether to give up hosting the 2027 men’s world championship. Finland is organising opposition, joined by Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Czechia; the IIHF says it is consulting member associations, organisers and host authorities.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.