The Russian national team is not permitted to compete at the 2026 World Championship

A meeting of the International Ice Hockey Federation’s (IIHF) Executive Committee was held on 4 February.

During the meeting, the decision to not permit the Russian national team to participate at the 2026 World Championship was taken.

Special RIHF Representative for International Affairs Pavel Bure:

“Over the course of three years, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation and I have actively worked with the IIHF and the entire hockey family to secure Russia’s return to the international scene. During this time, we have managed to ensure that our partners are listening to our stance. I made speeches on three occasions during the last meeting, whereas previously we hadn’t been allowed to explain our position or even be at the meetings.

“One of the IIHF’s arguments for not permitting Russia to compete in its tournaments is the issue of safety. In our opinion, this argument does not hold enough strength. More than 50 Russians play in the NHL. Russian swimmers, chess players and representatives of other sports are participating in international competitions without any incidents being recorded. One of our suggestions was to finance additional security for Russia, in order to allow fans across the planet to watch one of the world’s best teams in action again.

“Regardless of today's decision, the IIHF will eventually have to allow Russia to compete in international tournaments. Without Russia, the level of the World Championship has significantly decreased. We will challenge this decision in court and achieve our goal. I would also like to point out that the International Olympic Committee will make the decision regarding Russia’s participation at the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan.”

The Russian Ice Hockey Federation will have the right to contest the decision following the completion of the 2025 IIHF World Championship. The IIHF allows for the possibility of reviewing the decision in the event of the armed conflict in Ukraine ending.