Finns split over Russia’s return to world ice hockey

Many Finns have reacted with dismay to the prospect of Russia returning to the ice hockey world championships in 2027, Yle reports, while opinions differ over whether Finland should take part.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport said on Friday that the International Ice Hockey Federation must allow Russia to compete in major tournaments immediately. Russia was excluded from international ice hockey after launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Some people interviewed by Yle said a decision to boycott the championships should not be left to individual players. Finnish Ice Hockey Association chair Heikki Hietanen said the association would comply with the ruling, which would mean Finland participating. Individual players could still choose not to take part.

However, the association’s board has not yet decided whether Finland will compete, according to Ilta-Sanomat. Ice hockey follower Janne Rintamaa, from Rauma, called Hietanen’s comments premature and said the association should take a clear lead.

People interviewed in Pasila, Helsinki, were mostly wary of Russia’s return. Päivi Malinen said Finland was unlikely to stay away, even though doing so would be the principled choice. She argued that sport cannot be separated from politics.

Others said Russia is a traditional powerhouse in the sport and its players are not responsible for the war. “All the best countries should be involved. I think sport and politics should be kept separate,” Teppo Leinonen said.

Several people told Yle that allowing Russia to compete could send a message that other countries accept its actions in Ukraine. Teemu Linjama, a hockey fan from Raisio, also said Russia’s return appeared likely to push Ukraine out of the championships.