IOC upholds ban on Russian teams ahead of 2026 Winter Olympics

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed on Tuesday that Russian teams will remain banned from the 2026 Winter Olympics, officially closing the door on NHL star Alex Ovechkin. 

The IOC released a statement following comments from International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) President Luc Tardif. 

Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin, #8, celebrates after scoring a goal past Buffalo Sabres goaltender James Reimer, #47, during the third period at Capital One Arena. (Amber Searls-Imagn Images)

"The IOC Executive Board recommendation from March 2023 with regard to teams of athletes with a Russian passport remains in place," the statement read, via Reuters. 

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"It is based on the fact that, by definition, a group of Individual Neutral Athletes cannot be considered a team. We take note that the IIHF has confirmed that it will follow this recommendation."

Speaking on the final day of the IIHF World Championship over the weekend, Tardif was asked about the possibility of Russian athletes competing in the upcoming Winter Games. He said that while a final decision had not been made, the belief was that the IOC would continue to uphold its ban. 

The NHL last allowed players to compete in the Olympics in 2014. (Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

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"Recently they asked us to send them a schedule without Russia, so that’s where we are," Tardif said, via TheHockeyNews.com. "The official statement is pending, but the IOC has told us that they are informing the Russian Olympic Committee