Russia Threatens Germany with Sanctions Over Ice Hockey World Championship Exclusion

Russia's ice hockey federation has threatened Germany with compensation claims if the national team is excluded from the 2027 World Championship, filing a complaint with the IIHF ethics committee. The dispute follows the Court of Arbitration for Sport's ruling on Russia's reinstatement. Federation chief Vladislav Tretjak said Russia would demand compensation, push for tournament relocation, and impose sanctions on organizers if Germany or Canada refuse entry. President Putin backed legal action through sports courts, citing ignored Olympic Charter principles. Germany's hockey federation warned of significant economic risks. Finland and Norway have announced visa bans on Russian athletes, citing the ongoing war in Ukraine. The restrictions primarily affect winter sports competitions held in both countries.