Athletistic / Hockey. Washington Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin said he is trying not to think about the Russian team’s possible non-participation in the 2026 Olympics in Italy. Previously it became known that the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) did not allow Russia to participate in the 2024/2026 international season.
“I try not to think about it. However, the same Kucherov may never take part in the Olympics. It’s madness! But that’s how it is. It is not in our power to change what let it be now. We’re just following the rules. It’s it’s sad, but these are the realities of the moment.
Is this unfair? There’s nothing we can do about it at the moment. Now we’re just sitting at home. Maybe that will change soon. Personally, I hope so,” Ovechkin is quoted in The Athletic.
On February 12, the IIHF announced its decision to maintain the suspension of the national teams of Russia and Belarus from competitions under its auspices for the entire 2024/2025 season. However, Russia has not yet lost its chance to participate in the 2026 Olympic Games in Italy.
The 2026 Olympic Games will be held from February 6 to 22 in Italy (Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo). The NHL has already announced that it will release its players for the 2026 and 2030 Olympic Games.
Alexander Ovechkin participated in three Olympic Games: Turin 2006, Vancouver 2010 and Sochi 2014.
Source: Sport
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