Finland and Norway plan to bar entry to Russian athletes as long as the war in Ukraine continues

Norway and Finland are both contemplating the implementation of bans on Russian athletes entering their countries while the war in Ukraine persists. The government of Norway has instructed relevant authorities to refuse entry to Russian and Belarusian athletes and their support staff participating in competitions or serving as support staff.

This prohibition is expected to remain in place until the conflict in Ukraine concludes. Currently, international sports organizations have eased their regulations, permitting more elite athletes and support personnel from Russia and Belarus to attend events in Norway. However, Norway remains firm in its decision to exclude professional athletes and support staff from these nations while the war in Ukraine continues.

Finland has similarly announced more stringent entry requirements for Russians. Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen emphasized that as long as Russia's aggression persists, Russian athletes have no place in Finland. Finland is set to host a figure skating Grand Prix event from November 20 to 22, which Russian figure skaters were initially planning to attend.

The entry restrictions will likewise apply to athletes, including those competing neutrally, as Helsinki will be hosting this event. The Court of Arbitration for Sport recently ruled that Russia's national team can return to international ice hockey tournaments. Multiple countries have already prohibited playing against Russia or hosting tournaments where the Russian team is allowed to participate.

Russia and international sports returned to hockey after 20 years following a ruling in Russia's favor, which could potentially disqualify Russia before the tournament begins. Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka faced criticism from athletes and cabinet colleagues after suggesting that ice hockey is a men's sport in remarks opposing the participation of Russian players.

Ukrainian gymnasts protested the return of Russian and Belarusian anthems at the European Championships.