Russia 25 Coach Comments on Finland’s Training Gap and KHL Influence
The head coach of Russia 25, Roman Rotenberg, spoke about changes in the Finnish national team that appear to stem from reduced training and exposure within the Continental Hockey League (KHL).
Rotenberg recalled watching the Finland versus United States game in the locker room, noting the final score of 1:4. He suggested that his own team had offered a more engaging performance on that occasion. He observed how the Finns, who continue to play in the KHL, maintain a high level of play because competition drives players to improve. Yet he emphasized that since the Finns stepped away from the KHL, the Finnish national team has looked markedly different. He urged that these concerns are ultimately for the Finnish side to address, while asserting that Russia would continue to grow and excel through its own rigorous competition.
The conversation touches a broader pattern in recent years: after the 2021/22 season, there has been a noticeable reduction in foreign players and clubs within the KHL. A portion of legionnaires left Russia amid the geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine, and some hockey federations expressed reservations about participating in the KHL as a destination. This shift has implications not only for league dynamics but also for national teams that rely on cross-border experience to sharpen their games.
As this season unfolds, major international events loom. The World Championships are scheduled to take place in Latvia and Finland, with the group stage running from May 12 through May 23. The event brings together teams from across Europe and beyond, testing depth, resilience, and tactical innovation under pressure. For fans and analysts, the tournament is a focal point for evaluating how changes in league play and international participation affect performance on the world stage.
It is important to note that the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) enforced a ban that excludes Russian players from participation in many international tournaments, a policy that has shaped team rosters and the level of competition faced by non-Russian squads. This development adds another layer to the ongoing discussion about how geopolitical factors influence sport, player development, and national teams worldwide.
In related commentary, former player Nikita Shitov mentioned he would be following the World Cup without Russian players, highlighting the personal and national narratives that accompany such decisions. The conversation surrounding player eligibility, league loyalties, and international representation remains a central topic as fans, coaches, and federations navigate the evolving landscape of international hockey. [citation: IIHF policy and contemporary commentary]