The International Ice Hockey Federation has announced Russia's participation will be determined on an event-by-event basis for the 2026-27 season. This decision comes after Russia's ban from all IIHF tournaments since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which previously prevented Russian NHL players from competing in events like the Milan Cortina Olympics.

The ruling follows an appeal from the Russian Ice Hockey Federation that led to annulment of a January decision barring Russian teams at all levels. The IIHF clarified this does not constitute full reinstatement. Additionally, Belarus will return to under-18 men's and women's events and women's Division IV championship beginning this year after also being banned for supporting Russia's war.

"The decision was not taken lightly," according to the IIHF Council, which emphasized ongoing consultations with stakeholders to ensure safe, controlled reintegration. The federation maintains its belief in keeping the international hockey family connected through sport, with this partial reinstatement representing a measured step forward in a complex geopolitical situation.