The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has announced the group stage draw for the 2027 men’s world championship, a tournament that will again be marked by the absence of Russia.
Group Composition
Germany, Sweden and Finland have been placed together in a tightly contested group, while the host cities of Düsseldorf will serve as the base for the United States and Canada. The roster also includes Czechia and Slovakia, rounding out the eight‑team line‑up.
Ukraine’s Long‑Awaited Return
After a 20‑year absence, Ukraine has earned promotion back to the top division by winning a second‑tier qualifying tournament, a development that the IIHF highlighted as a key storyline for the upcoming championship.
Russia’s Continued Exclusion
Russia has now missed six consecutive world championships since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and its exclusion also extends to this year’s Olympic hockey events, underscoring the geopolitical ramifications that continue to shape the sport.
The tournament is expected to feature fierce competition among the European powerhouses, while the participation of Ukraine adds a fresh narrative to the competition.