After Helsinki NHL games, Finland bars Russian athletes entering country amid Ukraine war
Entry limits announced
Finland’s foreign ministry said Russian athletes would face restrictions on entering the country. The policy covers competitors representing national teams and those taking part under neutral status. The announcement follows public criticism in Finland after Russia was reinstated for the ice hockey world championships. Officials said the new measure is connected to the war in Ukraine.
Skating event under review
The International Skating Union said it was assessing what the Finnish decision could mean for competitions. Among the events it identified was the figure skating world championships planned for Tampere, Finland.
The union said it had taken note of the government’s announcement and was examining its possible effects. The event’s status was not confirmed in the statement.
Athletics ban remains in place
World Athletics, the governing body for track and field, already bars Russian participation across the sport. That policy is facing a legal challenge. The Finnish entry limits could have consequences for future events hosted in the country, but the article does not specify how they would affect the 2030 championships.
Key points
- Finland’s restrictions cover Russian athletes competing as neutrals or for national teams.
- The policy begins Monday, after the scheduled Helsinki hockey games and Levi ski races.
- The figure skating world championships in Tampere could be affected, and the ISU is reviewing the implications.
- World Athletics maintains a blanket ban on Russian participation, which is facing a legal challenge.