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IIHF President Pushes for Russia, Belarus' Sports Return by 2028

2/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Luc Tardif, president of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), wants Russia and Belarus to return to international competition soon.
Russia and Belarus have been banned since February 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine.
Tardif says the process should follow the International Olympic Committee's recommendations and separate politics from sports.
He plans to allow youth teams from these countries to compete starting in 2028.

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Story summary

Luc Tardif, president of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), wants Russia and Belarus to return to international competition soon.
Russia and Belarus have been banned since February 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine.
Tardif says the process should follow the International Olympic Committee's recommendations and separate politics from sports.
He plans to allow youth teams from these countries to compete starting in 2028.