NHL to Align with IIHF on Russia, Belarus for 2028 World Cup
NHL’s position on Russia and Belarus’s participation in the 2028 World Cup hinges on the decisions made by the IIHF. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated that the league intends to align with the international community regarding these nations’ involvement. This statement follows the ongoing discussions about reinstating Russia and Belarus in international competitions.
IIHF’s Stance on Russia and Belarus
Luc Tardif, the president of the IIHF, expressed a desire to reintroduce Russia and Belarus into international hockey promptly. Tardif indicated that their return could symbolize a positive shift in global circumstances.
Background on Russia’s Exclusion
- Russia has been banned by the IIHF since 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine.
- At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Russian athletes competed under the Russian Olympic Committee due to sanctions from a past doping scandal.
- The inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off, the first elite men’s hockey tournament since 2014, did not include Russian teams.
- No Russian competitors were allowed at the Milano-Cortina Olympics, though some participated as neutral athletes in individual sports.
The IIHF’s decision remains pivotal. The international community’s response to the situation in Ukraine will heavily influence future policies regarding Russia and Belarus in international hockey tournaments.
