WHL issues statement on invasion of Ukraine as sports world stands united

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The statement comes after the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced Wednesday that it is still determining the date and format of the 2022 CHL Import Draft. There was some speculation that the league may ban Russian and Belarusian players altogether, but that has not been announced.

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“The Canadian Hockey League is committed to the safety and well-being of all of its current players and is supportive of their continued development regardless of their country of origin,” the CHL says.

On a related note Thursday, a shock turnaround in Beijing means Russian and Belarusian athletes will be banned from competing in the 2022 Paralympics, set to begin March 4.

As of yesterday, the International Olympic Committee had said athletes from those countries must cover up all flags or national symbols on their attire or equipment, and compete as neutral athletes. As the Associated Press reports, growing animosity in the Athletes Village, and threats of withdrawals caused the IOC to reverse course.

The IOC’s decision was supported by the Canadian Olympic Committee, who issued a statement on Feb. 28.

Hockey Canada also announced this week it would bar Russia and Belarus from competing in any events held in Canada which aren’t overseen by the IIHF. That includes this year’s Ivan Hlinka Gretzky Cup, which is set for mid-summer in Red Deer and Edmonton.

(with files from Associated Press)