IIHF prepares to readmit Russian hockey teams following CAS ruling

Nexus Europa Newsroom

Posted Nov 9, 2026, 05:30 AM UTC · In the digest of 2026-11-09-0530

IIHF prepares to readmit Russian hockey teams following CAS ruling — Photo: NV

The IIHF is preparing to readmit Russian national teams for the 2026/27 season following a CAS ruling, displacing Norway and drawing sharp criticism.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has begun taking steps to comply with a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling ordering the readmission of Russian national teams for the 2026/27 season.

Following the tribunal's decision, the Norwegian Ice Hockey Association reported that its team was removed from the 2027 World Junior Championship roster to accommodate Russia's return. The IIHF stated that while it disagrees with the CAS ruling, it is obliged to fulfill legal requirements and is consulting affected federations. The suspension of Belarusian teams remains in effect.

The decision triggered immediate political reactions. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the move, warning that returning Russian athletes makes officials "accomplices to Russian war crimes." Practical obstacles also persist, with potential host nations such as Canada refusing to grant visa entry to Russian players.

Sources: Українська правда, NV, Радіо Свобода, The Insider, NEXTA

How outlets assessed this

Nov 9, 2026, 05:30 AM UTC
- NV Critical Framed the IIHF's replacement of Norway with Russia as a scandalous decision.
- Радіо Свобода Critical Focused on Ukrainian diplomatic outrage calling IIHF leaders accomplices in Russian war crimes.
- NEXTA Neutral Emphasized the IIHF's reluctance and legal obligation to comply with CAS despite disagreement.