Alexander Kozhevnikov, a two-time Olympic champion, reflected on remarks made by Luc Tardif, the president of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).
During the organization’s annual congress, Tardif stated that the moves to exclude Russian and Belarusian teams from the 2024 World Cup were not intended as political punishment but were meant to safeguard the integrity of the competition and the athletes from those nations.
In response, Kozhevnikov criticized the decision, saying that the world’s reaction had been strong and that leadership hinges on clear judgment. He noted that keeping competition fair is essential, and questioned the rationale if the measure cannot also offer protection. Kozhevnikov suggested alternatives, even as a hypothetical option, to ensure safety and continuity in the sport while debates about protection continue. The remarks were reported by Vprognoze.ru.
Tardif added that a final decision regarding the participation of the Russian and Belarusian national teams in IIHF events scheduled for next year would be announced in March. As a result, both teams will miss the 2024 World Championship and additional IIHF tournaments to be held in the Czech Republic.
It is recalled that the IIHF previously decided to exclude Russian players from international competition, even when participating under a neutral flag. In 2023, the federation also revoked Russia’s right to host the host junior world championship.
Earlier, in July 2022, the IIHF disciplinary committee rejected the Russian Ice Hockey Federation’s appeal seeking admission to international events.
Earlier statements in the Court of Arbitration for Sport indicated that it did not view the suspension of Russian football clubs as a discriminatory decision, emphasizing the broader context of the dispute and the governing bodies involved.