Finland blocks visas for Russian athletes

The government issued a resolution that tightened restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens applying for short-term work visas, including for professional 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," Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said in a statement.

The new rules will go into effect on November 16.

The government decision had been expedited after a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) opened the door for Russia's men's and women's ice hockey teams to return to the world championships next year.

"Russia uses sports as a propaganda tool and seeks to use sports to promote the goals of its illegal war of aggression," the foreign ministry said.

"Russian citizens will only be allowed to work under a Schengen visa in tasks that are essential to Finland's national interests," it added.

Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, several international sports bodies have banned Russian athletes from competing, but some have begun easing restrictions.

Finland along with Denmark, Norway, Sweden and the Czech Republic have said they will not play Russia at the 2027 world ice hockey championships in Germany.

Finland has already put restrictions on the entry of Russian citizens by for instance banning non-essential travel for Russian citizens in 2022.