The Canadian government has expressed strong opposition following a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport that orders the International Ice Hockey Federation to reinstate Russia into international hockey competitions, overturning a ban imposed following its invasion of Ukraine.
The decision has raised questions about upcoming events, including the upcoming world junior men's hockey championship in Alberta, which begins in less than two months in Edmonton and Red Deer. Federal officials condemned the outcome, noting the significant questions and emotions surrounding the decision.
Hockey Canada expressed disappointment with the ruling and stated it was seeking clarity on the implications for future competitions, noting it was in contact with the IIHF and had briefed the federal government on the outcome. While international bodies have ruled that Russia must be allowed back, the Government of Canada maintains its strong opposition to the reinstatement.
