The International Ice Hockey Federation IIHF informed on Thursday about its decisions regarding the future of Russia and Belarus.

The countries will not be able to participate in international ice hockey at least next season. IIHF justifies the continuation of the competition ban with security reasons.

However, it was willing to make some concessions regarding the junior teams of the countries. Under-18 teams from Russia and Belarus may be allowed to participate in international tournaments in the 2027-28 season. The final decision will be made based on the security situation at that time.

The countries have been excluded from IIHF activities since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

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