RIHF statement concerning the amount of foreign players among KHL clubs

In accordance with the legislation in place, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation (RIHF) possesses the right to establish restrictions on the participation in official All-Russian ice hockey competitions for players who do not have the right to play for Russian national teams.

These regulations are then subsequently approved by the Russian Ministry of Sport.

At this moment in time, each Russian club has the right to include no more than three foreign players (including one goalkeeper) in the line-up for a match which is a part of the Kontinental Hockey League/Russian Championship. Considering that the International Ice Hockey Federation has extended restrictions on the participation of Russian players in World Championships of all age categories, and that our clubs are deprived of the opportunity to participate in tournament games in either Europe or North America, the RIHF has decided to consider the possibility of reinstating the preceding limit on foreign players (five players including no more than one goalkeeper) in match line-ups for a period of one year - the 2024/2025 season. This matter will be considered by the RIHF Board.

The management of the RIHF believes that the participation of a larger number of foreign players will ensure healthy sporting competition while familiarising the participants of the Russian Championship with other styles of professional global ice hockey, something which will consequently create additional opportunities for exchanges of experience.