Russia's World Cup participation uncertain amid war

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman stated that the participation of Russia in the upcoming 2028 World Cup of Hockey remains uncertain, saying, "Time will tell." The tournament is scheduled for February 2028, featuring eight teams in Calgary, Edmonton, and Prague.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the International Ice Hockey Federation has banned Russia from international play, citing security concerns. This has sparked a debate about whether a true 'best-on-best' tournament can occur without Russian players.

Bettman indicated the league will take cues from the international community regarding athletic participation. He added that there is no immediate urgency to make a decision on Russia's inclusion. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly noted that the competition at the World Cup could surpass that of the Olympics.

The NHL's plans for the World Cup are part of a broader effort to expand its international calendar, alternating between the Olympics and World Cup every two years. This will be the fourth World Cup of Hockey, with the previous tournaments held in 1996, 2004, and 2016, with Team Canada as the most recent champion.

The IIHF has considered allowing Russia and Belarus back into under-18 competitions, which could be a step toward their reintegration in international events. NHLPA Executive Director Marty Walsh expressed a desire to see Russian players return to best-on-best tournaments, emphasizing that the barriers are rooted in global politics, not the NHLPA itself.