Russia Remains Out: IIHF Maintains Exclusion from 2027 Championship

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) excluded Russia from the 2027 men's world championship despite lifting their ban last month. Russia was banned in 2022 following their invasion of Ukraine. The decision was maintained due to safety concerns, and future participation will be reviewed individually.

In a recent decision, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has upheld the exclusion of Russia from the men's 2027 World Championship, despite the lifting of a ban last month. This move follows the initial suspension of Russia from IIHF events in 2022 due to Ukraine's invasion.

The IIHF council revisited the matter in January but chose to uphold the exclusion due to persistent safety and security concerns. Although the decision was annulled by the IIHF's disciplinary board, the governing body reiterated that Russia would not automatically be eligible for future events and would be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The 2027 championship is set to take place in Germany, and for the first time since 2007, Ukraine is set to participate, grouped in Group A. Russia's decorated past in the sport, having claimed 27 titles, highlights the significance of their ongoing exclusion from major international competitions.