Nordic Countries Refuse to Play Russia at Ice Hockey World Championship
The ice hockey federations of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark announced on Tuesday that their men’s national teams will refuse to play against Russia at the upcoming World Championship in Germany, following a recent legal ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Court Ruling Overturns Exclusion
The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled on the 30th in favor of Russia in its dispute with the International Ice Hockey Federation. The tribunal found that security grounds cited by the international body to exclude Russian squads lacked sufficient evidence. That decision cleared the path for Russia to return to international competition.
Finland announced a similar refusal the previous day. Norway, Sweden, and Denmark joined that stance on Tuesday, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine and the safety of athletes.
Nordic Associations Demand Continued Exclusion of Russia
The Norwegian federation stated in a public release that Russia should remain excluded from all international tournaments while the war in Ukraine continues. The statement emphasized the responsibility to protect the well-being of players, coaches, and their families.
Henrik Bach Nielsen, president of the Danish Ice Hockey Association, told the news agency Ritzau that his organization communicated its refusal directly to the International Ice Hockey Federation.
Norway will not play against Russia at the 2027 World Championship, based on the current situation and the information available today. Read the full statement from the Norwegian Ice Hockey Association: pic.twitter.com/VM0EGIzRLK
This concerns our safety and the safety of all our partners: players, fans, and sponsors. Out of consideration for the integrity of hockey, we cannot face Russia at this time.
Nielsen stated, noting that safety concerns extend to players, fans, and sponsors alike. The Nordic federations confirmed they will not boycott the tournament entirely, but will decline matches against the Russian team.
German Government Response
The German government weighed in on the diplomatic and logistical complications surrounding the ruling. Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius expressed skepticism regarding the Court of Arbitration for Sport decision and advocated for a restrictive visa policy for Russian athletes.
Both the German Ice Hockey Federation and the international governing body stated they would thoroughly examine the written ruling and its arguments. The German government plans to discuss potential consequences with the national federation ahead of the tournament.
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