IIHF maintains opposition to CAS ruling on Russian teams’ return

The IIHF says it still opposes the ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, or CAS, on Russia’s return to international hockey.

On October 30, CAS ordered the federation to allow Russian national teams to compete.

The IIHF says a quick return would create major practical challenges, including visas, security, travel and changes to tournament formats.

It says some competitions are only weeks away, leaving little time to prepare.

The federation is consulting national associations, event organizers and authorities in host countries.

Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Latvia have said they would withdraw from the 2027 World Championship if Russia takes part, and Norway’s hockey association has also opposed Russia’s participation.

The IIHF says safety and fair competition remain priorities as it assesses the ruling’s effects and the next steps.