The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has defended its decision to allow Russian teams back into international ice hockey, as national federations and tournament organizers weigh the practical consequences of their return.

In a statement Thursday, CAS said its panel ruled on the legal arguments and evidence presented by the parties. It found that the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) had not shown enough evidence to meet the legal standard for keeping Russia excluded from its competitions in the 2026–27 season. The court also said it could not impose conditions that the parties had not asked it to consider.

The ruling has not settled how tournaments will handle Russian participation. Several hockey federations—including those of Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Latvia and the Czech Republic—have said their teams will not play Russia. Canada’s prime minister has also said Russia and Belarus will not take part in the World Junior Championship in Alberta.

The IIHF has said it disagrees with the ruling and warned of sporting and logistical difficulties. Sponsors have raised concerns too: some have said they may end their involvement if Russia competes, while a German federation has questioned whether it can host next year’s men’s world championship under the new circumstances.

The dispute follows the suspension of Russian teams from IIHF events after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The CAS decision restores eligibility under the court’s ruling, but the growing refusals to play and questions over hosting mean the governing body still faces decisions about how competitions can proceed.

Sources: Reuters: CAS acknowledges divisive reaction to Russia decision; Associated Press: Finland says its national teams won’t play Russia.