IIHF Russia decision sparks backlash from Norway, Sweden, Canada

The International Ice Hockey Federation's decision to allow Russia back into the World Juniors Hockey Championship next month is facing backlash, with Norway saying it was bumped for Russia and Sweden vowing not to play against them. The IIHF ban on Russia was overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Oct. 30, prompting Canada to reaffirm its ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in the tournament in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alta., which starts Dec. 26. Norway, as the 10th-ranked team, was relegated to make room. Canadian officials suggest Russian players could compete as neutral athletes, though this has not been tested in a team format. Ukrainian Canadian leaders called the ruling "a disgrace," while Norway awaits further IIHF information.