In a growing show of solidarity with Ukraine, six countries have threatened to boycott Russia in hockey tournaments. The countries, including Sweden, Finland, the Czech Republic, Norway, Latvia, and Denmark, have announced they will not play against Russia as long as the war in Ukraine continues. Canada has also joined the boycott, with Prime Minister Mark Carney stating that Russia will not be allowed to participate in the upcoming world junior hockey tournament in Alberta. The boycott is a response to Russia's ongoing support for the war in Ukraine, with many countries citing concerns for the safety and well-being of their players and team staff. Norway's Ice Hockey Association stated that playing Russia under current circumstances could expose players and team staff to significant security risks, and that their priority is their mental health, wellbeing, and personal safety. The boycott is not limited to the world junior tournament, with several countries also considering boycotting the men's world championship in Germany next year. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has been instructed to reinstate Russian teams, but many countries are refusing to comply. The boycott has also led to several sponsors pulling out of the tournament, including Finnish tire manufacturer Nokian Tyres and Swedish furniture maker AJ Products. The Czech federation is hosting the women's under-18 world championship in January and is considering denying entry to Russian players. The situation is a complex one, with some countries, like Slovakia, still supporting Russia's return to international hockey. However, the majority of countries are standing in solidarity with Ukraine and refusing to play against Russia until the war ends.
Humanity
Russia not allowed at world juniors as 6 countries threaten boycott, Canada says
Prepared with AI assistance; not independently fact-checked. Original source: ESPN Olympics