Finland’s recent decision to limit the entry of Russian athletes due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has prompted the International Skating Union to caution about a “potential consequential effect” on the upcoming figure skating world championships scheduled in the country.
This governmental action, announced on Thursday, comes in response to public opposition in Finland regarding Russia’s reinstatement for the hockey world championships. However, the repercussions are likely to resonate more significantly in other sports.
“As long as Russia’s act of aggression persists, Russian athletes have no place in Finland. Allowing their entry poses a risk to Finland’s international relations. This applies equally to other temporary work visas that do not align with Finland’s national interests,” stated Elina Valtonen, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, in her announcement.
The Finnish foreign ministry indicated that this policy would impact Russian competitors participating as neutral athletes, as well as those representing their national teams.
This development coincides with efforts by the Canadian government to block Russia from participating in the world junior hockey championships in Alberta next month, even for players holding Canadian visas.
Skiing and skating events in Finland this month
Finland is set to host a figure skating Grand Prix next week, alongside a cross-country ski World Cup event later this month. Both competitions currently allow Russian athletes to compete as “neutral competitors.”
A significant event that may be impacted is the figure skating world championships in Tampere, slated for March, where Russian skaters are anticipated to be key contenders for medals.
The ISU noted it has acknowledged the Finnish government’s statement regarding the entry of Russian nationals and is assessing the potential implications for sporting events, particularly the ISU figure skating world championships planned in Tampere, Finland.
“The ISU holds that athletes should not be penalized for their governments’ actions in a world where, regrettably, numerous conflicts exist.” The ISU further mentioned it is “seeking clarifications” from Finnish skating authorities.
This policy will take effect on Monday, suggesting it is unlikely to influence the NHL games scheduled for this week in Helsinki between the Seattle Kraken and the Carolina Hurricanes, or the upcoming ski World Cup slalom races in Levi set for Saturday and Sunday.
Both the International Ski Federation and the International Olympic Committee have not yet responded to inquiries for comments.
Hockey controversy sets the stage for Finland’s decision
The Finnish hockey federation has garnered support from a coalition of European teams that have pledged not to compete against Russia at the forthcoming hockey world championships.
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The men’s championships are set to take place in Germany, which is currently deliberating whether to proceed with hosting following a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport that reinstated Russia. The German hockey federation has expressed concerns regarding security expenses at venues and the possibility of refunds.
Looking ahead, Finland is set to host the hockey world juniors in Tampere and Turku in December 2027 and January 2028.
Additionally, Finland will host the European track and field championships in 2030. The governing body for track and field, World Athletics, currently enforces a comprehensive ban on Russian participation, although this is facing legal challenges.
