Two additional nations have joined Finland in boycotting games against Russia at the upcoming Ice Hockey World Championship, following the controversial decision to reinstate Russia to the tournament.
Sweden and Norway have both announced their intention to boycott games involving Russia at the championship following last week’s decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which overturned the ban imposed on Russia in 2022, a ban that was originally enacted in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
With the CAS ruling, Russia is once again eligible to compete in major international events during the 2026-27 season, including both the men’s and women’s world championships. The CAS justified its decision by stating that there was insufficient
evidence to support the International Ice Hockey Federation's (IIHF) security concerns regarding Russia’s participation.
Initially, the Swedish Hockey Federation indicated it would not join the boycott. However, the federation ultimately decided not to play against Russia. They stated that while Sweden would still participate in other World Championship games, it would refuse to take the ice against Russia in any competition.
In a statement announcing their boycott, the Norwegian Ice Hockey Association said, “Our position is that Russia should be excluded from all international championships as long as the war in Ukraine continues and remains unchanged.
"We believe that playing Russia under the current circumstances could expose our players and team staff to significant security risks. Our priority is therefore their mental health, wellbeing and personal safety.”
The IIHF Men's World Championship will take place in May 2027 in Düsseldorf and Mannheim, Germany.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Norway, Sweden join Finland in Russia boycott at hockey world championship games
