Turku Threatens to Quit Hockey World Championship if Russia Plays

Turku – (Special Correspondent/Web Desk) – The Finnish city of Turku has made a bold statement about the hockey world championship. On Monday, the city said it will withdraw as host of the 2027-2028 junior event if Russia takes part.

The warning came just days after a major legal decision. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled on October 30 that Russia can return to world events. The appeal was filed by the Russian Ice Hockey Federation.

Russia has been banned from International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) competitions since February 2022. That was when President Vladimir Putin launched the invasion of Ukraine. The new ruling changes that situation.

The first event open to Russia is the junior world championships in Canada. That tournament runs from December 26 this year to January 5, 2027. The next one, in 2027-2028, is planned for Turku.

The city did not hide its feelings. In a public statement, Turku said it will give up hosting the tournament at the turn of 2027-2028 if the Russian national team plays.

Mayor Piia Elo explained the reason in simple words. She said that while Russia is waging a war of aggression in Ukraine, the city cannot accept the Russian team playing in Turku.

Turku also shared its hope for a way forward. The city wants the IIHF and the Finnish state to find a solution that stops Russia from taking part.

The door is still open, though. The city added that if the games are held without Russia, Turku will be happy to host them.

For now, all eyes are on the IIHF. Fans, players and host cities are waiting to see how the federation will respond to the ruling and to Turku’s warning.