Russia’s team will not be able to compete at the World Junior Championship due to the Canadian authorities’ stance, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) said.

“The IIHF confirms that due to the position and restrictions formally communicated by the Canadian Government, the Russian U20 national team is unable to participate in the World Junior Championship. After carefully assessing the feasibility of alternative arrangements, the IIHF Council has determined that Canada will remain as host and the tournament will proceed from 26 December 2026 to 5 January 2027 in Edmonton and Red Deer. All participating MNAs have been informed and an updated competition schedule will be posted shortly for both the World Junior Championship and World Championship U20 1A,” it said.