Finland refuses to play Russia after court ruling on return to international hockey
Finland's national ice hockey teams will refuse to play against Russia as long as its war against Ukraine continues, the Finnish Ice Hockey Association said following a ruling allowing Russian teams to return to international competition.
The association is seeking support from other national federations to prevent Russia's participation in upcoming world championships.
"Our position is that we will not play against Russia as long as the war of aggression against Ukraine continues," Finnish Ice Hockey Association President Heikki Hietanen said.
On October 30, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld a Russian appeal against its exclusion from international ice hockey competitions, including world championships in the 2026–27 season.
The ruling prompted Finland and other member federations of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) to explore ways to keep Russian teams out of the tournaments.
"We are currently gathering as many countries as possible into a united front to tell the IIHF that none of us will play against Russia under these circumstances," Hietanen said.
He added that a joint position would carry significantly more weight than a declaration by Finland alone.
The Finnish association's board agreed on November 2 to consider all available options, taking into account legal considerations and the interests of Finnish hockey.
The IIHF board began a two-day meeting on November 2, with Russia's participation as its main agenda item.
Germany has warned that Russia's return could create security risks and additional costs for the 2027 World Championship. The Czech Republic and Austria have also opposed allowing Russian teams back into international competitions.
Swedish company AJ Produkter, a sponsor of the championships for 37 years, announced it would withdraw its advertising from the 2027 tournament over Russia's potential participation.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also condemned the CAS ruling, arguing that allowing Russian national teams to compete would help legitimize Moscow's aggression.
Finland has not announced a boycott of the entire tournament. Its stated policy is to refuse matches against Russian teams while the war continues.
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