Rotenberg: USA Hockey Backs Russia's Return

Roman Rotenberg says the USA Hockey federation backs a return of the Russian national team to international competition, and that a match between the two countries could happen soon.

Rotenberg made the claim in an interview, responding to questions about a men's national-team game within the next year.

"The USA Hockey federation supports the return of the Russian national team. They have stated this officially. They cite revenue, competition and sporting interest, especially for tournaments across the Atlantic. This is quite realistic," Rotenberg said.

Russia's national team has been barred from IIHF-sanctioned tournaments since February 2022. In late July 2025 the International Ice Hockey Federation extended that suspension through the 2026/2027 season. The Court of Arbitration for Sport has confirmed it received an appeal from the Russian Ice Hockey Federation against the IIHF ruling.

If USA Hockey confirms the stance, it marks the first institutional sign of lifting the ban, separate from Moscow's diplomatic contacts. The CAS appeal remains the more immediate route back for Russia, and any federation-level backing would carry weight only once it is put on the record by USA Hockey itself.