Days before major winter tournaments, Finland narrows a visa exception for Russian athletes, including those competing as neutrals

Finland has tightened its visa rules for Russian citizens, including athletes, in the lead-up to major winter tournaments. On November 12, the government adopted amendments to its decision-in-principle governing Russian citizens’ entry into the country, with the aim of "protecting Finland’s international relations." Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen stated that Russia "uses sport as a propaganda tool for its war of aggression," and that other EU countries have similar national restrictions.

Previously, Finland had not issued tourist visas to Russians since 2023. However, the entry restrictions will apply to Russian athletes competing as neutrals, including those participating in the Finlandia Trophy figure skating competition and a cross-country skiing World Cup event in Ruka. The new restrictions will take effect on November 16, and visas already issued will not be revoked.

Brief written by urgent.news from Meduza (English)'s own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.