Two-time Olympic hockey champion Alexander Kozhevnikov commented on the IIHF’s move to prolong the suspension of Russia and Belarus from events under the federation’s oversight, describing the decision as predictable. His remarks were reported by Sports Express and reflect a broader frustration with the current state of international ice hockey governance.
Kozhevnikov asserted that Pavel Vladimirovich Bure would have pressed for explanations from officials he labeled as stubborn or untruthful. He criticized the interaction that followed, questioning whether such conduct by the IIHF could be considered acceptable. He claimed that arrogance had taken root within the organization and that powerful nations and their partners could act without accountability. He also noted that tensions exist among some Nordic members who share concerns about the IIHF’s approach. The athlete emphasized that while the stance may appear irrational to observers outside the region, it is viewed as normal within certain circles.
During the IIHF Council meeting held on February 12–13, 2024, a decision was made to extend the suspensions of Russia and Belarus for another season. The council indicated it would maintain close oversight and revisit the possibility of reintegrating the two national teams for the 2025–26 season, with a review expected in May 2025.
Historically, Russia and Belarus were absent from the 2022 and 2023 world championships due to IIHF decisions, and the 2024 world championship proceeded without them. The approach followed guidance from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which advised international federations not to allow Russian athletes to compete. This policy effectively excluded Russian players from international tournaments even when participating under neutral status. Additionally, Russia lost the opportunity to host the 2023 World Junior Championships.
In the broader context, the IIHF has been evaluating the participation of Russian athletes in major events, including the Olympic Games, with updates anticipated as part of ongoing governance and safety considerations. The evolving situation continues to draw attention from national associations, fans, and officials who are seeking clarity on timelines and criteria for future reintegration. The discussions reflect a wider debate about compliance, sanctions, and the fairness of competitive opportunities in international sport, as reported by Olympic and IIHF channels and corroborated by related governance statements.
Note: The above synthesis aligns with publicly available statements from the IIHF and IOC discussions surrounding this matter and reflects the positions expressed by stakeholders at the time of reporting.