# Ukraine’s ice hockey has ‘no intention of giving up’ after court ruling clears way for Russia’s return

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/ukraines-ice-hockey-has-no-intention-of-giving-up-after-court-ruling-clears-way-for-russias-return/
- Published: 2026-11-06T18:08:05+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T18:22:16+00:00
- Original publisher: Kyiv Independent
- Original article: https://kyivindependent.com/ukraines-ice-hockey-has-no-intention-of-giving-up-after-court-ruling-clears-way-for-russian-teams/
- Topics: Europe, World

## Key points

- A court ruling could clear the way for Russian teams to return.
- Ukraine and several hockey nations oppose their readmission.
- Ukraine is preparing for different outcomes and consulting around 50 associations.

## Summary

The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled on 30 October that the International Ice Hockey Federation’s exclusion of Russian players from its tournaments was unlawful, bringing their possible return closer. Ukraine and several leading hockey nations oppose that prospect, arguing that Russia’s participation would lend normality to its international standing while its war against Ukraine continues.

Ukraine’s national team captain Ihor Merezhko said Ukrainian players keep training despite air-raid alerts and the destruction of ice arenas. Federation president Serhii Mazur said the ruling came after just three days of proceedings and that Ukraine is preparing for different outcomes while negotiating with around 50 associations. Germany warned Russia’s participation could have security, political and economic consequences for hosts; some federations have threatened to boycott upcoming championships. The IIHF has expressed disappointment with the ruling but has not announced its next steps.

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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.