Former International Hockey Federation (IIHF) President Rene Fasel spoke on behalf of the integrity of the hockey family. His words are quoted Sports24.
“I am very happy that the Israeli team has the opportunity to play at the World Junior Championship in Bulgaria. In a good sense, the IIHF should make the same decision about the Russian team. This is a good sign. I am in favor of the hockey family being one,” said Fasel.
In the spring of 2022, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) decided to ban Russian players from participating in international tournaments, even with neutral status, and the organization also stripped Russia of the right to host the youth world championship at home in 2023. .
In March 2023, the IIHF extended the suspension for the 2023/24 season. At the same time, the president of the organization, Luc Tardif, announced that the IIHF council will return to the issue of accepting the national teams of Russia and Belarus in March 2024.
Following the escalation of the conflict between Israel and the Gaza Strip, the IIHF decided not to allow Israelis into tournaments, but later brought them back.
Previously reportedHe said NHL players will go to the 2026 and 2030 Olympics.