Finland may bar Russian athletes without waiting for EU rules

Finland will pursue a national ban on Russian athletes entering the country rather than wait for possible EU rules, Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen told Helsingin Sanomat, Yle reported.

Valtonen said on Monday that Russian athletes would not be welcome in Finland next year if Russia continues its war of aggression. She did not specify how their entry could be blocked, but the newspaper said she indicated that visa rules could be changed.

The issue follows a ruling on Friday by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, an international sports appeals court, requiring the International Ice Hockey Federation to allow Russia to take part in international ice hockey immediately. The decision could enable Russia to compete in tournaments next year.

Finnish Ice Hockey Association chairman Heikki Hietanen said the association was appalled by Russia’s return but would respect the ruling. President Alexander Stubb and parliamentary speaker Jussi Halla-aho have criticised the decision, while Sports Minister Mika Poutala said Russia was still not welcome in sport under its national symbols.