Canada to bar Russian and Belarusian hockey players from 2026 World Juniors, even with valid visas

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 12, 2026

Photo Courtesy: The Canadian Press

Canada will prevent Russian and Belarusian hockey players and team officials from entering the country to compete in next month’s World Junior Championship, even if some already hold valid Canadian visas.

Secretary of State for Sport Adam van Koeverden announced the government’s position on Wednesday, saying immigration officials would individually assess athletes and officials from the two countries and take steps to stop them from participating in the tournament.

The decision reinforces Prime Minister Mark Carney’s earlier position that Russia cannot represent itself in Canadian sporting events while its war against Ukraine continues, with Belarus supporting the invasion.

The announcement also closes the possibility of Russia joining the tournament under a neutral designation. Ottawa clarified that neutral participation may apply to individual athletes, but not to an entire national team.

The move follows a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport directing the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) to reinstate Russia in international competitions. The decision had raised the possibility of Russia replacing Norway in the 10-team tournament.

Norway had qualified for the competition but said it was informed that Russia would take its place. The IIHF has yet to formally announce changes to the tournament lineup, and its website continues to list Norway as a participant.

Several European hockey federations, including those of Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Norway, have also expressed opposition to playing against Russia while the war in Ukraine continues.

The 2026 World Junior Championship is scheduled to begin on December 26 in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta.