The National Hockey League (NHL) has reaffirmed its position that no Russian team will be involved in its international competitions, including the upcoming 2028 World Cup of Hockey. Commissioner Gary Bettman stated this decision during a recent press briefing attended by reporters such as Mark Lazerus of The Athletic, emphasizing that the league’s stance remains unchanged.
Alignment with International Organizations on Russia’s Status
The NHL intends to follow the lead of the global hockey community when determining if and when Russia might return to these events. According to Bettman, until the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) permits Russia to compete again in tournaments like the World Championship and World Juniors, the league will exclude a Russian team from the World Cup and similar competitions such as the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Continued Suspension of Russia and Belarus from Competitions
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, neither Russia nor Belarus have been allowed to take part in any major international hockey tournaments. The IIHF points to ongoing security concerns and the unstable situation in parts of eastern Ukraine, which remain under Russian control, as reasons for maintaining the ban. Notably, Russia holds the second position in the IIHF world rankings, just behind Canada.
Recent History of Russian International Hockey Performance
Russia last appeared in the World Championship in 2021 with key players such as Sergei Bobrovsky, Dmitry Orlov, and Vladimir Tarasenko on the roster. Russian athletes have also achieved success at the Olympics, securing gold in 2018 and silver in 2022, although NHL players were not part of those Olympic teams.
Details on the Upcoming World Cup of Hockey
The NHL announced the revival of the World Cup of Hockey last year, scheduling the tournament to take place mid-season during the 2027-28 campaign rather than the traditional preseason period. This timing aligns with the current Olympic break and the 4 Nations Face-Off interval seen in previous seasons. Reports indicate that the event will be organized independently of the IIHF’s involvement.
Implications for International Hockey and the NHL
By maintaining the exclusion of the Russian team, the NHL underscores its commitment to the broader international community’s directives and responses to geopolitical events. This ongoing decision impacts player participation, international competition dynamics, and the overall structure of the World Cup and related tournaments. The league’s collaboration with global hockey authorities will likely determine when Russia’s return may be possible, depending on developments within the IIHF framework and global security conditions.
Gary Bettman says the NHL will "follow what the international community" is doing in regards to allowing Russia in the 2028 World Cup. In other words, for now, the Russians would not be involved.
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) February 12, 2026
