Russia is back in the hockey world championships after sports court ruling
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has overturned the International Ice Hockey Federation's ban on Russian teams, allowing them to return to international competition. The IIHF expressed disappointment, citing ongoing safety and security concerns regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Why it matters
This ruling challenges the ability of international sports governing bodies to use bans as a tool for geopolitical sanctioning.
The ruling is a major win for Russia against efforts to bar it from international sports due to the war in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin is a noted hockey fan who has previously played exhibition games with former stars.
CAS overturned International Ice Hockey Federation decisions, which excluded Russia from events in the 2026-27 season including the men's and women's world championships. Russia also missed the Olympics tournaments this year.
IIHF to decide Russian hockey participation on event-by-event basis after ban review
Russia, Belarus remain banned from hockey tournaments until at least May 2026
Russia's return throws into uncertainty how the men's world championship will work next year in Germany, given that Ukraine has also qualified.
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