Russian Deputy Slams Canada's Ban on Russian Hockey Team at 2027 World Juniors

Russian State Duma deputy Dmitry Svishchev criticized Canada's decision to bar Russian hockey players from the 2027 World Junior Championship, saying Canada should welcome Russian participation. He called the exclusion "absurd" and suggested the tournament be moved to another country or cancelled. Svishchev argued Russian players would provide attractive hockey and competition, and that Canadian authorities should not interfere politically. He also questioned the decision to block even Russians with valid visas, urging the International Ice Hockey Federation to consider relocating or postponing the event. Online commenters mocked Svishchev's remarks, noting Russia itself faces widespread boycotts from hockey teams, and questioned which countries would host the tournament. Some pointed out that 46 Russians already play in Canadian leagues, while others criticized Russia's domestic hockey development priorities. Canada previously informed the IIHF it would deny visas to Russian players, including those with existing visas.