IIHF: Belarus barred from 2027 Ice Hockey World Championship - Russia eligible

As announced by the International Ice Hockey Federation, the IIHF Council has decided not to allow Belarus to participate in the 2027 IIHF Ice Hockey Men's World Championship.

The Belarus U20 team will also be barred from competing at the 2027 World Championship.

The Council's decision follows a ruling by the IIHF Disciplinary Board, which partially upheld the appeal by the Belarusian Ice Hockey Association against the Council's decisions from July 27, 2026.

In its ruling, the Disciplinary Board confirmed that there was no legal basis to order immediate reinstatement.

Russian participation: CAS decision stands

Regarding Russia's participation, the IIHF continues to comply with the decision of the CAS. This means Russian teams remain eligible for the 2027 World Championships for now.

These are the tournaments Russia is allowed to compete in for 2027 >>>

However, the IIHF maintains its opposition to the decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding Russia's participation in IIHF World Championships.

The IIHF is currently exploring all available options. "This includes engaging in discussions with all affected national member associations, including the Russian Ice Hockey Federation, to find a constructive way forward that serves the interests of global ice hockey," the IIHF stated.

It is examining "what conditions must be met to ensure the safety and integrity of our World Championships, protect the financial stability of the federation, and secure the long-term future of international ice hockey."