IIHF Statement on Sochi 2014

The International Ice Hockey Federation released a statement following the recent bombing in Volgograd, Russia:

When it comes to the Olympics, it is the International Olympic Committee (IOC) together with the host organizing committee of Sochi 2014, who are in charge of all organizational matters, including security.

The IIHF continues to closely monitor the situation together with the IOC and Sochi 2014, but is at the same time wholly committed to fulfil its obligation for ice hockey to be part of Sochi 2014, as it has been every time since 1920.

With IIHF President René Fasel being a member of the IOC Executive Committee, the IIHF is being continuously updated about any development.

It is worth reminding that the Olympic movement and ice hockey are not new to security challenges. Prior to Salt Lake City 2002, the situation was extremely tense only four months after September 11, but all involved parties – IOC, SLOC2002, the various sport federations together with national security authorities – delivered a memorable games, including safety for athletes, fans, media and other participants.

Our condolences go to all those affected by the recent bombing in Volgograd. Unfortunately, terrorism is a global phenomenon and no region is exempt, which is why security at the Games is a top priority for the IOC. At the Olympics, security is the responsibility of the local authorities, and the IIHF has no doubt that the Russian authorities will be up to the task.

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