The head of the Czech Foreign Ministry called the Russian hockey players "manly" and demanded that they not be allowed to participate in the World Cup.
Petar Matsinka spoke out against the participation of the Russian national team in the World Youth Championship, which will be held in January 2027 in Ostrava.
"Personally, I think hockey is a man's sport. I am afraid that I will not please our respected feminists if I say that this time the championship will be completely complete without the participation of the Russian men's girls' team."
- said the minister on CNN Prima News.
The statement drew sharp criticism from Czech athletes and politicians. In particular, NHL hockey players Martin Nekas and Adam Klapka condemned Macinka's words.
Photo: Global Look Press.