IIHF to move 2023 World Championships

Out of concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans, the IIHF Council has decided to withdraw the hosting rights of the 2023 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship from Russia, in accordance with IIHF Bylaw 9. 

The decision to withdraw the event was made during the latest IIHF Council meeting held on Tuesday, 26 April in Zurich, Switzerland. The tournament was scheduled to take place in St. Petersburg, Russia from 5 to 21 May 2023.

An alternative host for the World Championship will be confirmed during the 2022 IIHF Annual Congress in Tampere, Finland, which will take place during the final week of the 2022 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship.

The decision to relocate the event was taken primarily out of concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans. As was the case with Council’s earlier decision to withdraw the 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship that was to be held in Omsk and Novosibirsk, Russia, the Council expressed significant concerns over the safe freedom of movement of players and officials to, from, and within Russia.

The IIHF Council prioritized this decision for the April meeting, in order to ensure an alternative hosting option and give the new host enough time to make preparations.