IIHF Began Presidential Election in Tenerife
Nine candidates are vying for the leadership of the International Ice Hockey Federation this week.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Hockey
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Should international sports federations continue to ban national teams for political reasons?
The International Ice Hockey Federation has convened its semi-annual Congress in Tenerife to elect a new president. Nine candidates are currently running for the leadership position as the organization navigates ongoing international suspensions.
Why it matters
The election occurs during a period of significant geopolitical tension for the federation, which has banned Russian and Belarusian teams from international play due to developments in Ukraine. The next president will oversee the continued enforcement of these sanctions and the federation's legal responses.
A total of nine candidates have officially entered the race to lead the organization. The election process is currently underway at the Congress, with the final results pending the conclusion of proceedings.
The players
International Ice Hockey Federation
This is the worldwide governing body for ice hockey that organizes international tournaments and sets global rules for the sport.
Russian Ice Hockey Federation
This organization manages ice hockey in Russia and is currently challenging international sanctions through the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Court of Arbitration for Sport
This international quasi-judicial body is based in Lausanne and settles disputes related to sports through arbitration.
Vyacheslav Fetisov
He is a prominent figure in hockey who has publicly stated he expects no policy shifts toward Russia following the leadership election.
The details
The Congress is held from September 30 to October 2 in Tenerife to address leadership and governance issues. Meanwhile, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation has formally challenged the IIHF's extension of its suspension until 2027 by filing an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport in early September.
Timeline
February 2022: The IIHF suspended Russia and Belarus from international competition.
July 30, 2026: The IIHF extended the suspension of Russia until 2027.
Early September 2026: The Russian Ice Hockey Federation filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
September 30, 2026: The IIHF Congress began in Tenerife.
October 2, 2026: The IIHF Congress concludes.
Season Trajectory
This election could determine the future stability of international tournament regulations following the precedent set by the February 2022 IIHF suspension of Russia and Belarus. The outcome will likely confirm whether the federation maintains its current trajectory or seeks to revise its stance on international team eligibility.
The exclusion of Russian national teams from the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy remains a firm policy, regardless of the election results. Sports observers are tracking how these administrative decisions impact the competitive balance of upcoming international hockey events.
The takeaway
The election of a new president marks a critical juncture for the federation as it balances international pressure with the governance of global hockey. Stakeholders should monitor the incoming administration's stance on pending legal challenges to understand the potential for future tournament participation.
Further reading
For more updates on organizational leadership and international tournament status, visit our Hockey section.
Live Poll
Should international sports federations continue to ban national teams for political reasons?
