Figure skating worlds face 'impact' as Finland restricts entry for Russian athletes

Finland's move to restrict entry to the country for Russian athletes because of the war in Ukraine caused the International Skating Union to warn of a “possible consequential impact” on its figure skating world championships there.

The government decision on Thursday follows a backlash in Finland to Russia being reinstated for the hockey world championships, but its effects could mostly be felt in other sports.

“As long as Russia’s war of aggression continues, Russian athletes have no business in Finland. Their entry into the country would be a threat to Finland’s international relations. The same is true of other short-term work under visas that is not essential to Finland’s national interests," Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen said in a statement.

The Finnish foreign ministry said the measure would affect Russian athletes competing under neutral status as well as those competing for national teams. 

Canadian government says Russian players with visas will still be barred from WJC

The move comes at the same time as Canada's government tries to prevent Russia playing the world junior hockey championships in Alberta starting next month, even for players who already hold Canadian visas.

Finland hosts a figure skating Grand Prix next week and a cross-country ski World Cup this month. Both sports allow Russians to compete as “neutral athletes.”

One major event likely to be affected is the figure skating worlds in Tampere in March. Russian skaters are expected to be among the top medal contenders.

The ISU said it “has taken note of the statement today by the Finnish government related to Russian nationals entering the country and the possible consequential impact on sporting events, including the ISU figure skating