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.