Clear: Finland stops Russian athletes

According to the new decision in principle, visas will only be granted for a shorter entry to Finland if it is deemed "necessary for Finland's national interest", writes Yle.

The new entry restrictions also apply to Russians competing under a neutral flag – and by extension also to Russians other than elite athletes.

The question of Russian athletes' participation in international competitions has long been hotly debated, and lately especially in ice hockey.

Russia has been banned from participating in the Ice Hockey World Cup since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. On October 30, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) overturned that decision, meaning Russia is allowed to play at the World Cup again.

Several countries, including Sweden and Finland, have said they refuse to face Russia in future championships.