The IIHF is reviewing how Russia could return to international hockey after the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned the federation’s exclusion of Russian teams from 2026-27 competitions. The IIHF says it disagrees with the ruling but must comply, while assessing safeguards for competition, finances and the sport’s future. Belarus, however, remains excluded from the 2027 world juniors and men’s world championship.

By the Numbers
  • Russia’s overturned ban covered the 2026-27 men’s and women’s world championships and world juniors.
  • Belarus is barred from the 2027 world juniors and men’s world championship.
  • Seven nations—Finland, Sweden, Czechia, Norway, Denmark, Latvia and Austria—protested Russia’s reinstatement.
Yes, But

CAS found insufficient evidence to support the IIHF’s security concerns and overturned Russia’s exclusion. The IIHF and several national federations continue to cite security, logistics and competitive fairness concerns, and some have said they will not play Russia.

State of Play
  • The IIHF is exploring options and plans to consult affected member associations, including Russia’s federation.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Russian players will not compete at next month’s world juniors in Edmonton and Red Deer.
  • Belarus’s appeal did not establish a legal basis for immediate reintegration, and the IIHF cited existing event plans in keeping the team out of the 2027 tournaments.
What's Next

The IIHF’s discussions will determine whether Russia can return and what conditions might apply. The world juniors open Dec. 26, while the men’s world championship begins May 14 in Germany.

Bottom Line

CAS has overturned Russia’s exclusion, but that does not guarantee a straightforward return: the IIHF must balance legal compliance with safety concerns and resistance from national federations. Belarus’s 2027 exclusion remains in place.