Finland and Norway Bar Russian Athletes Over Ukraine War
Norway follows with its own restrictions as Finland tightens visa rules and the Figure Skating World Championships in Tampere face new questions.
Athletes – (Special Correspondent/Web Desk) – Finland has decided to block Russian athletes from entering the country while the war in Ukraine continues. The government announced the move on Thursday and said the athletes have “no business” in Finland.
The new rules tighten short-term work visas for Russian citizens. Under them, Russians can only work in Finland on a Schengen visa for tasks that are essential to the national interest. Athletes competing under a neutral flag will also be refused visas.
Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said the athletes’ entry would threaten Finland’s international relations. She also said Russia uses sport as a tool for propaganda. The rules take effect on November 16.
A few hours later, Norway made its own announcement. It said professional Russian and Belarusian sportspeople will not be allowed to compete on its soil. Norway said recent relaxations by international sports federations could let more athletes and support staff from both countries enter. This could block some athletes even if the International Ski and Snowboard Federation has cleared them. Norway will host a cross-country skiing World Cup in Trondheim in December.
Finland is due to host the Figure Skating World Championships in Tampere in March 2027. The International Skating Union said it is “studying” the decision. It added that athletes should not be punished for the actions of their governments. It is also asking Finnish organisers for further clarification.
The move comes after a Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling on October 30. That ruling opened the door for Russia’s ice hockey team to return to next year’s World Championships. Several countries, including Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the Czech Republic, have said they would refuse to play Russia.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga welcomed Finland’s decision. He urged other European countries to close the remaining loopholes and increase pressure on Russia.
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