“Significant economic risk” – Russia opponents refuse new World Cup schedule

Opponents of Russia's return to international ice hockey and the 2027 World Cup in Germany are increasing the pressure on the IIHF world association. A group of at least seven nations around the German Ice Hockey Federation (DEB) have not signed the new schedule for the U20 World Championship in Canada, in which Russia is supposed to replace Norway's team, said DEB CEO Frank Lutz in the Bundestag's sports committee. A corresponding boycott stance against games against Russian teams can still be expected for the World Cup in Germany next year.

In view of this situation, Lutz once again pushed for the IIHF to quickly clarify the Russia issue. "We understand that a solution cannot fall from the sky overnight. But it is inconceivable for us to continue to do so for several weeks," said the DEB board chairman.

In this case, several nations around world champion Finland had already announced that they would not compete against a Russian team. A changed game plan would also be a problem for the hosts given the almost 250,000 tickets that have already been sold, as fans could demand their money back, warned Lutz. The situation represents a “significant economic risk” for the DEB. If several of Russia’s group opponents refuse to play, this would “reduce the tournament to absurdity,” said Lutz.