The World Ice Hockey Federation IIHF is working on the return of the Russian and Belarusian teams.
“I hope you understand me exactly as I said: We want the Belarusian and Russian teams back as quickly as possible. Because that would above all mean that the world would be a better place,” said French IIHF President Luc Tardif on Thursday on the sidelines of the Olympic Games in Milan.
Russia excluded since 2022
After the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, the world ice hockey association also excluded Russia and its ally Belarus from all international competitions. The IIHF also withdrew Russia from the 2023 World Championship, which should have taken place in St. Petersburg.
Although Russia continues its attacks on Ukraine unabated, the desire for reintegration is growing in world sports. Most recently, Gianni Infantino, President of the World Football Association FIFA, was open to lifting the ban as soon as possible. “This ban has achieved nothing. It has only caused frustration and hatred,” Infantino said on Sky UK.
The IIHF is currently following the recommendation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) not to admit teams to the competitions. “An early return would not be good for our competitions and the security issue remains,” Tardif said. However, in the youth sector, the IIHF is already working on the reintegration of the Russian and Belarusian U18 teams.
(SID)
Image: Imago
date: 2026-02-12 22:48:00
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