In a move that many expected, Russia will not take part in the men’s and women’s ice hockey tournaments at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. Though the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) haven’t made an official announcement yet, the decision was reportedly made during the IIHF’s annual meeting held last Friday.
Why Is Russia Banned?
Russia, along with Belarus, has not played in any IIHF tournaments since February 2022. This was the time when both countries were banned after Russia invaded Ukraine. While they were already not allowed to play in the 2025–26 ice hockey season, the Olympics are under the control of the IOC, which has the final say.
In January, IIHF president Luc Tardif mentioned that they do want Russia and Belarus to return to play someday. However, he also said that letting them back too early would be wrong, especially since the war is still going on. He added that their return should only happen when the war ends.
A Missed Chance for Russian Hockey Legends
This decision might mean that we have already seen the last of some of Russia’s greatest hockey stars on the Olympic stage. Famous names like Evgeni Malkin (38), Alex Ovechkin (39), and goalie Sergei Bobrovsky (36) are all reaching the end of their careers. They may not be in shape or active by the time Russia is allowed back in.
Other big names like Vladimir Tarasenko and Artemi Panarin are both 33 now. Even younger stars like Nikita Kucherov (31) and Andrei Vasilevskiy (30) could be past their peak by the next opportunity.
The last time NHL players competed at the Olympics was back in 2014 in Sochi, Russia. In that tournament, Bobrovsky had an excellent performance with a .952 save percentage. Malkin, Ovechkin, and Tarasenko also played, though their performances were mixed. Back then, Kucherov, Panarin, and Kaprizov were not yet the stars they are today.
Having all these top players together in one team would have been amazing to watch. It could have challenged any top hockey nation, and fans will definitely feel they missed out on some great moments.
What Happens Next?
Once the war between Russia and Ukraine ends, Russian players could get a chance to return in major events like the 2028 World Cup of Hockey or even the 2030 Olympics. Some younger stars such as Kirill Kaprizov, Ivan Demidov, and Matvei Michkov could lead the next generation.
But for now, it feels like a golden era of Russian ice hockey has quietly ended. It was a time filled with star players, exciting matches, and strong goaltending. Sadly, due to reasons outside of sports, fans have missed the chance to see the best players compete against each other.
Why This Ban Feels Fair but Painful
It’s understandable why Russian athletes feel disappointed. Many of them have worked hard their whole lives for a chance to represent their country. But at the same time, the IIHF and IOC have to think about global safety and fairness.
In 2022, the IIHF clearly spoke out against the use of military force and banned Russia and Belarus. Since nothing has changed in that situation, their ban continues as well.
Russian players have given fans unforgettable moments, but they won’t be able to create new ones until peace returns and international bodies feel it’s safe again. For now, we can only hope that the war ends soon and the world of sports can come together once more. Until then, Russian ice hockey will have to wait for its return to the world stage.
