Finland bars Russian athletes from entering country over Ukraine war
Finland has announced a ban on Russian athletes entering the country, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine as a threat to international relations. This policy will impact several upcoming winter sports events, including the figure skating world championships.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the intersection of international geopolitics and professional sports, setting a precedent for how nations may restrict Russian participation in global events.
The NHL’s 2026 Global Series games between the Caroline Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken will take place before Finland’s ban on Russian athletes is enforced. Photograph: Brian Babineau/NHLI/Getty Images The NHL’s 2026 Global Series games between the Caroline Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken will take place before Finland’s ban on Russian athletes is enforced. Photograph: Brian Babineau/NHLI/Getty Images Sport Finland bars Russian athletes from entering country over Ukraine war Russians ‘have no business’ in country, says minister
Skating and cross-country skiing first to be affected
Prefer the Guardian on Google Finland says it will restrict entry to the country for Russian athletes because of the war in Ukraine, potentially affecting a number of winter sports. The move follows a backlash in Finland to Russia being reinstated for the ice hockey world championships.
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