Archive · 27 May 2025
IOC Upholds Ban on Russian Teams for 2026 Winter Olympics
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has decided that Russian teams can't play in the 2026 Winter Olympics.
This especially affects the Russian men's hockey team, who can't compete.
The IIHF, which runs international hockey, agrees with this decision.
While some Russian athletes can still participate under a neutral flag, teams are not allowed.
This ban is due to the situation with Russia's actions.
Hockey fans will miss seeing the Russian team in the games.
The Russian team will have to watch from the sidelines.
The IOC confirmed the ban on Russian teams from the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.
This decision impacts the Russian men's hockey team.
The IIHF will follow the IOC's policy, excluding Russian teams from its events.
Individual Russian athletes may still compete under a neutral flag.
Team sports like hockey remain off-limits to Russia.
- Who
- The IOC, IIHF, and Russian hockey teams.
- What
- The continued ban of Russian teams from the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- When
- Confirmed in recent statements regarding the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Where
- Milano Cortina (2026 Winter Olympics).
- Why
- Due to the ongoing geopolitical factors following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
- Event
- 2026 Winter Olympics
- Location
- Milano Cortina
- Decision Maker
- IOC
- Supporting Body
- IIHF
- Ban Status
- Ongoing