Norway dropped from junior hockey championship to make room for Russia
Norway's junior ice hockey team has been dropped from the World Junior Championship in Canada to make room for Russia following a Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling.
Ranked 10th, Norway has been moved to Division 1A to free a place for Russia at the tournament scheduled from 26 December to 5 January in Alberta. Tickets for the event, including Norway's matches, are already on sale despite the uncertainty.
The IIHF has not yet formally confirmed the change, with Norway still listed as a participant on their website. Russia's participation also remains uncertain as the team has not been guaranteed visas to enter Canada, which could restore Norway's place.
Boycott concerns
Six countries, including Norway, have pledged to boycott matches against Russia while the war in Ukraine continues. Several corporate sponsors have also stated they will withdraw support if Russia is allowed to compete.
The situation clearly illustrates all the practical difficulties and immediate consequences for everyone involved if countries are immediately reinstated in full.
German championship at risk
The CAS ruling affects five world championships in 2027, including the senior men's tournament in Germany. Ukraine, which qualified for the first time since 2007, could be displaced as the lowest-ranked team would have to make way for Russia.
The German government has called holding the championship with Russia "virtually impossible," while DEB chief Frank Lutz suggests Germany may relinquish its hosting rights. Russia was suspended from international hockey following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
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