Following the recent Council meeting, the IIHF maintains its disagreement with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) decision and will continue to closely monitor related developments and their implications for the affected IIHF World Championships.

The IIHF is aware of the recent statements made from key stakeholders regarding this decision and is carefully analyzing the scenarios around CAS’s ruling. As presented to the CAS, the immediate reintegration of Russian teams presents significant practical and sporting challenges, including visa and entry requirements, security provisions, logistical constraints and consequences for competition formats, all compounded by the limited time available, with some events only weeks away.

The global impact of the decision made by the CAS Panel and the challenges it creates for all involved were significantly underestimated. The IIHF Council remains in dialogue with Member National Associations, organizing committees, host authorities and other key stakeholders to determine the best way forward. The foremost priorities remain the safety and security of all participants, teams, officials and fans, the smooth operation of the Championships and the integrity of the competitions.

More information will be shared in the coming days.