Canada to host 2027 World Juniors without Russia
The IIHF attributed Russia's absence to Canadian restrictions. Norway's tournament status remains unclear after it was told it would be relegated.
Canada's restrictions prevent Russia's under-20 team from competing at the 2027 World Junior Championship, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) said on Nov. 15. The federation confirmed that hosting rights would stay with Canada.
The tournament will take place in the Alberta cities of Edmonton and Red Deer, beginning Dec. 26, 2026, and ending Jan. 5, 2027. A revised schedule will be issued shortly, the IIHF said.
An Oct. 30 ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) had ordered Russia's readmission to five international championships, including the World Juniors. In response, Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Norway said they would refuse games against Russian opposition.
Prime Minister Mark Carney had previously ruled out Russian participation. Canadian authorities also said entry for competition would be denied to athletes and officials representing Russia or Belarus. Russian media reported that Russia had demanded either a place for its team or relocation of the championship.
Norway's hockey federation said on Nov. 8 that it had received notice of relegation to accommodate Russia. Whether Norway keeps its tournament berth remains unresolved, with no clarification yet from the IIHF.
