As a reaction to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the World Handball Federation IHF has now reacted with consequences for Russia and its ally Belarus.
Teams, officials, referees and experts from both countries are excluded from all events and activities until further notice, the IHF announced. This would implement the sanctions already imposed by the European Handball Federation EHF worldwide.
This means that teams from Russia are initially not allowed to take part in two junior world championships and the world championship in beach handball this year, for which the respective teams were already qualified. The decision follows the recommendation of the International Olympic Committee.
The IHF condemned Russia’s actions and declared that the invasion of Ukraine represented a breach of the Olympic truce. The World Federation expressed its solidarity with Ukraine and all those affected by the war.