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Prime Minister Confirms: Russians Will Not Compete in the 2027 World Junior Championships
Raphael Simard
Prime Minister Confirms: Russians Will Not Compete in the 2027 World Junior Championships

A few days ago, some really good news (in my opinion) was announced: the Russians will be back on the international stage.

And of course, seeing Alex Zharovsky, Gleb Pugachyov, and the few Russians who will be selected in 2027 for the 2027 World Junior Championship (in Edmonton) is a dream scenario for Habs fans.

But Mark Carney has come along to dampen enthusiasm on this issue. The premier confirmed that Russia will not be at the next World Junior Championship.

As long as the country supports the war in Ukraine, Russian (and Belarusian) athletes will not be allowed to compete for their countries in Canada.

And since the World Junior Championship will be held on Canadian soil, Russia will not be present—much to the dismay of hockey fans who couldn't care less about politics… Carney's decision is understandable, however.

So we're unlikely to ever see Zharovsky at the World Junior Championship. Next year, the tournament won't be in Canada, but he'll turn 20 in February. We might see Pugachyov, though.

Speaking of Zharovsky, he's been called up to the country's national junior team for the Future Cup.

This will be a good international experience for him.

Yesterday, the IIHF Council was scheduled to hold a meeting regarding Russia's reinstatement to IIHF championships. That meeting was ultimately postponed until Thursday. Should we be concerned? Has something happened?

Without the Russians at the 2027 World Junior Championship, the 10 participating nations will be Canada, the United States, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Switzerland, and Latvia.

I can't wait. Too bad for the Russians.

In a Nutshell

– Cool.

– The Habs are heavy favorites.

– That's for sure.

– I agree.