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Russia Excluded from 2026 Winter Olympics Ice Hockey Tournament

The IOC's decision, confirmed by the IIHF, reshapes the group stage and marks the first Olympic ice hockey tournament with full NHL participation since 2014.

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IIHF-Präsident Luc Tardif
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Overview

  • The IIHF has confirmed that Russia will not participate in the 2026 Winter Olympics ice hockey tournament following a decision by the IOC.
  • The exclusion impacts the group stage, with Germany now set to compete in Group C alongside the USA, Latvia, and Denmark.
  • Russia has been banned from ice hockey World Championships since 2022 due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
  • The 2026 Winter Olympics will feature NHL stars for the first time in 12 years, enhancing the tournament's competitive appeal.
  • A decision regarding Russia's participation in the 2027 World Championship in Germany is expected in February 2027.