Russia's ice hocky team was barred from the 2022 World Championships in response to the war in Ukraine. (file photo)
The International Ice Hockey Federation says it has taken away Russia's rights to host the 2023 World Championships as the number of barred Russian sports teams and performers and canceled events rises in response to Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.
The federation said in a statement that the decision was taken at an IIHF Council meeting in Zurich on April 26.
"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," the statement said.
"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," it added.
Last month, the IIHF barred Russia and its close ally Belarus from the 2022 World Championships in response to the war in Ukraine.
The IIHF said on April 26 that a new venue for the 2023 tournament will be confirmed during this year's World Championships next month in Finland.
