NHL star forward comments on receiving a controversial ban from the Olympics
PUBLICATION
Sam Walker
September 24, 2024 (11:59 PM)
Photo credit: BarDown
Russia has been banned over the past few years from competing at the international level at the Olympics.
For hockey fans, this has taken away surreal experiences to see such a hockey country like Russia going head to head with others, like Team USA, Canada and Sweden.
Following an announcement with off-season it was made known that the 2026 Winter Olympics will feature many nations of hockey, and now the IIHF committee will reportedly make a decision on Russia in May of next year.
Russian NHL captain Alexander Ovechkin was asked about the ban, and it is one of his first times speaking on the controversial ruling:
"In theory, yes, but you see what is happening with our team now. They are not allowing us to participate in the World Championships or the Olympics, so I don't know how this will all happen.»
It is unclear if Russia will be unbanned from IIHF play, but if so, Ovechkin will take the opportunity with grace as it may be his last opportunity to strike gold before retirement.
Previously on HawksInsider
POLL |
SEPTEMBRE 24 | 161 ANSWERS NHL star forward comments on receiving a controversial ban from the Olympics Do you believe that the IIHF should allow Russia to compete in the 2026 Olympics? |
Yes | 41 | 25.5 % |
No | 120 | 74.5 % |
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