Country says IIHF is kicking them out of World Juniors to make room for Russia
Norway was demoted to Division 1A after the IIHF complied with a CAS order to readmit Russia.
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The Court of Arbitration for Sport has ordered the International Ice Hockey Federation to readmit Russia to its championships, starting with the 2027 World Junior tournament in Alberta. The tournament starts December 26 in Edmonton and Red Deer.
The Norwegian Ice Hockey Federation says it was demoted to Division 1A to make room for Russia, which takes the tenth spot in the new U20 setup. Norway had been placed in Group B alongside Canada, Czechia, Switzerland and Latvia. Its secretary general, Petter Salsten, said Russia should not compete internationally while the war in Ukraine continues.
The IIHF says it disagrees with the CAS decision but is complying with it, and is reviewing conditions to protect its championships and finances. Prime Minister Mark Carney has said Russian hockey players will not be admitted to Canada to take part. Multiple federations have threatened to boycott games that include Russia.
Will the Canadian government's refusal to admit Russian players be reversed or enforced at the border?
Have any federations confirmed boycotts, and which ones?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
