Sports · 2026-11-04 · Afternoon briefing

Nations and sponsors revolt over Russia's ice hockey return

A ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to reinstate Russia into international ice hockey has triggered a widespread boycott. The sport's governing body, the IIHF, said the fallout was "significantly underestimated" as at least nine nations declared they would not play against Russian teams. The list includes Canada, Germany, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Czechia. CAS overturned the IIHF's 2022 ban, which cited security concerns following the invasion of Ukraine, stating there was "not sufficient evidence" to support it.

The decision jeopardises major upcoming tournaments and their commercial backing. Canada, host of the World Juniors, has barred Russian athletes; its prime minister confirmed they would not be allowed to compete. Germany's federation is considering handing back hosting rights for the Men's World Championship. Long-term sponsors are also pulling away: Skoda, the main sponsor for more than three decades, will "reassess" its position, Finnish tire maker Nokian will end its support, and Swedish company AJ Products has requested its logo not be displayed. The IIHF council is currently deadlocked on how to proceed.

Summary written by Cup of News with AI from the sources below. Check the originals for the full story.

Read the sources

• Ice Hockey World Championship Main Sponsor Skoda to 'Reassess' Backing if Russia Plays
• Russia’s hockey reinstatement draws backlash from nations, sponsors
• Cold Play: Nations Line Up To Boycott Ice Hockey Games Against Russia
• Russia’s Return to International Hockey Triggers European Boycott and Sponsorship Crisis
• Nations threaten Russia boycott at Germany's ice hockey worlds

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