IIHF challenges CAS ruling over arbitrators' Russia ties

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has filed a formal objection against two arbitrators involved in the recent Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) decision that lifted Russia's international hockey ban, citing suspected undisclosed business ties to Russia. According to TSN, the IIHF questions two of the three arbitrators who ruled on October 30 to reinstate Russia. Both reportedly attended legal conferences in Moscow, and one, Italy's Giulio Palermo, held a senior legal role in the Russian-led International Boxing Association. The challenge could delay Russia's planned return to international tournaments, potentially complicating preparations for the World Junior Championship and the 2027 Men's World Championship. However, the objection does not automatically overturn or suspend the CAS ruling, and the IIHF's specific legal requests remain unclear.