Sweden Refuses to Play Russia in 2026-2027 Ice Hockey World Cup Despite CAS Ruling
Sweden stands firm on not playing Russia in the 2026-2027 Ice Hockey World Cup despite the Court of Arbitration for Sport allowing Russia's participation.
Key details
- Sweden will not boycott the World Cup but refuses to play against Russia.
- The Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled Russia can compete internationally.
- Sweden is prepared to forfeit matches if drawn against Russia.
- The decision was confirmed by Swedish Ice Hockey Federation president Anders Larsson.
Sweden has announced it will not boycott the upcoming 2026-2027 Ice Hockey World Cup but will refuse to play any matches against Russia. This was confirmed by Anders Larsson, president of the Swedish Ice Hockey Federation, who stated, “Our position has not changed – we will not play against Russia.” The decision follows the Court of Arbitration for Sport's ruling that Russia is allowed to participate in international hockey events. Despite this legal verdict, Sweden alongside several other countries has declared it will not compete against Russia, fully aware that refusing to do so could lead to disqualification from the tournament.
Larsson highlighted the seriousness of the stance by acknowledging that Sweden might have to forfeit matches, potentially including knockout stage games, if drawn against Russia. “There is a limit. That limit, we believe, has been crossed,” he said. The Swedish federation took time to analyze the situation carefully before making its announcement, being the last Nordic country to confirm its position.
The men's junior hockey championship will start on December 26, followed by the women's U18 championship in early January, with the senior men's World Championship scheduled from May 14 to 30 next year. Sweden’s firm stand against playing Russia underscores the ongoing tension within international sports surrounding Russia’s participation amid geopolitical issues.
