IIHF bumps Norway to let Russia play at world juniors in Canada

Norway says it has been bumped by the IIHF to allow Russia to compete at the world junior championships in Canada, creating further uncertainty for the 10-nation tournament. The Norwegian Ice Hockey Association announced the switch on Sunday. The decision follows a Court of Arbitration for Sport ruling reinstating Russian hockey teams internationally, starting with the tournament opening in Alberta on Dec. 26. However, the IIHF has not formally announced the change, and Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney has said he will bar Russia from entering the country. Norway, ranked 10th, was relegated to the 1A Division to open a spot for Russia, which last competed in 2021 before its ban began after the Ukraine invasion. Six nations, including Norway, have vowed to boycott games against Russia, and several corporate sponsors have threatened to withdraw.