The Court of Arbitration for Sport has ruled in favor of Russian ice hockey teams, ordering the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) to permit their participation in international tournaments. This decision comes after the ban, which has been in place since February 2022, affected the national team and various junior teams.
The Russian Ministry of Sports, represented by Minister Mikhail Degtyarev, announced the ruling through its official Telegram channel. The decision is final and will take effect for the 2026/27 season. The IIHF will now need to work closely with Russian teams to ensure a smooth transition, addressing logistical arrangements for the first major international event under the new ruling.
The first major international competition will be the Junior World Championship in Edmonton and Red Deer, Canada, scheduled for the 2026/27 season.
The first major international competition will be the Junior World Championship in Edmonton and Red Deer, Canada, scheduled for the 2026/27 season.
Implementation of the CAS ruling will involve coordination between the IIHF and Russian officials.