Ukraine's Minister of Sports, Matby Bidny, criticized the decision of the International Ice Hockey Federations (IIHF) to include Russia in the 2027 World Youth Championship at the expense of Norway, and called for an investigation.
Bidny expressed support for Norwegian hockey players facing relegation from the elite league and said that Ukraine is ready.
The minister also warned that a similar situation could arise at the 2027 Men's World Championship, where the Ukrainian national team is scheduled to compete. He also raised concerns about the possible influence of former IIHF president Rene Fassel on the decision.
"We call for an immediate and transparent investigation of those responsible for this absurd decision," Bidney said.