Finland will refuse to play against Russia at international ice hockey tournaments for as long as Moscow continues its war against Ukraine, the Finnish Ice Hockey Association has announced.
The decision was confirmed on Monday by Heikki Hietanen, head of the Finnish Ice Hockey Association, who said the country would not take part in matches against the Russian national team while the war continues.
“Our own position is that Finland will not play against Russia,” Hietanen said.
The announcement comes amid renewed debate over Russia’s participation in international ice hockey. On Friday, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled that the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), the sport’s global governing body, must allow Russia to return to international competitions.
The ruling has placed pressure on the IIHF as it considers how to respond to the legal decision and the wider political and sporting consequences of Russia’s participation.
Finland is now seeking support from other countries, particularly its Nordic neighbours, to maintain a common position against playing Russia. The Finnish association believes that if several national teams refuse to face the Russian side, organising international tournaments involving Russia could become difficult or even impossible.
The issue has also drawn criticism from senior Finnish politicians, who have questioned the decision to allow Russia back into international ice hockey competitions.
The IIHF is scheduled to continue discussions on the matter on Tuesday. Its decision could have consequences for the organisation of upcoming international tournaments and the participation of national teams.
The next World Championship is scheduled to take place in Germany in May, making the question of Russia’s eligibility particularly important for the tournament organisers and participating countries.
Finland’s position adds another challenge to the IIHF’s efforts to resolve the dispute following the CAS ruling. While the court has ordered the federation to permit Russia’s return, Finland has made clear that it does not intend to participate in matches against the country while the war in Ukraine continues.
