Russia's participation sparks controversy: Seven federations protest!

Seven national ice hockey federations, led by the German Ice Hockey Federation (DEB), have refused to sign the revised schedule for the World Junior Championship in Canada in protest against the decision to allow Russia's junior national team to compete in the tournament.

According to TodayPress TV, the German newspaper Die Zeit reported this, citing a statement by DEB President Frank Lutz.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) had previously sent national federations the schedule for the World Junior Championship. Under the proposed schedule, Russia's team would replace Norway in the tournament.

Frank Lutz told the German Bundestag's Sports Committee that seven federations had refused to approve the schedule because of Russia's participation. He also urged the IIHF to resolve the situation as soon as possible.

The 2027 World Junior Championship is scheduled to take place from December 26 to January 5 in the Canadian cities of Edmonton and Red Deer.

Namig Hun