Ice hockey: Russia threatens against Canada and Germany over exclusion from tournaments
A fortnight after the CAS ordered ice hockey's governing body to reintegrate Russia into international play, a solution remains elusive. Now Russia has threatened to take legal action against two tournament hosts.
Russian Ice Hockey Federation President Vladislav Tretiak warned Canada and Germany that if they exclude the Russian team from participating, Russia will demand compensation, postpone the competitions, and impose sanctions on the organizers. Tretiak made the statement following a presidential sports council meeting in Moscow. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) is seeking a solution, and options include allowing Russia to participate or moving the championship, canceling it altogether, or imposing sanctions on Canada.
Canada has taken a firm stance, citing its opposition to Russia's war against Ukraine. Canadian officials have stated that as long as Russia continues its aggression, there can be no normalcy in sports. The Canadian government has confirmed it will not allow Russian players to compete in the IIHF World Junior Championship starting December 26 in Alberta.
Canada remains committed to supporting Ukraine. The IIHF initially pledged to abide by a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling on security concerns, but Norway and some other national hockey associations have withdrawn from the tournament, citing Russia's exclusion. Germany, which will host the IIHF World Championship in May, is considering its options.
With several nations refusing to play Russia and major sponsors wary, German officials believe hosting the tournament under these conditions is "effectively impossible." However, they have ruled out Canada's approach of denying visas. Germany's sport minister supports the Canadian position but believes a solution must be found that excludes Russia from the World Championship.
The complicated situation for Germany is further exacerbated by concerns that a hardline stance against Russia could affect Munich's bid for the 2036, 2040, or 2044 Summer Olympics. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recently lifted sanctions on Russian athletes and the Russian National Olympic Committee, raising concerns about how Munich might fare in future Olympic bids.
The IOC is expected to decide soon whether Munich advances in the selection process. For now, the IIHF is the key player in resolving the Canadian dispute, as the outcome may provide guidance for the men's tournament in Germany next May.
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