IIHF Extends Ban on Russia and Belarus for 2025-26 Hockey Season

The decision impacts participation in international tournaments, including the 2026 Winter Olympics, citing ongoing security concerns.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) announced that Russia and Belarus will remain banned from international hockey competitions through the 2025-26 season, citing safety and security concerns related to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
This ruling applies to all IIHF-sanctioned events, including the 2025 World Championships and World Junior Championships, and may influence Russia's eligibility for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, though the final decision rests with the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The ban has been in place since February 2022, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and will next be reviewed by the IIHF in May 2026.
The 2026 Winter Olympics are set to feature NHL players for the first time since 2014, but Russia's absence would exclude one of the most historically successful hockey nations, known for its NHL stars and strong international track record.
The decision also affects NHL teams and prospects, as the ban limits opportunities for scouting Russian players in international tournaments and excludes notable players from competing under their national flags.