IIHF Council takes definitive action over Russia, Belarus

The International Ice Hockey Federation extended the suspension of Russia until the end of the 2023/2024 season

The Council of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has extended the suspension of the national teams of Russia and Belarus from tournaments. This was reported on the website of the organization.

The IIHF said it was not safe for teams to return to the world stage. It is noted that the teams will not take part in all tournaments under the auspices of the organization until the end of the 2023/2024 season. The risks were assessed by a company specializing in this problem.

On March 13, Match TV announced the IIHF’s desire to return the Russian team to tournaments. The reason given was the organization’s business considerations. Even Canada and the United States were allegedly in favor of the return of the Russians.

On February 28, 2022, the IIHF suspended the national teams of Russia and Belarus from participating in competitions under its auspices. Also, Russia was deprived of the right to host the 2023 World Cup and the youth championship of the planet.