In the lead-up to the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, the absence of the Russian hockey team from the tournament has been a topic of conversation among players. Latvian forward Kaspars Daugavins lamented that political concerns overshadow the sport, highlighting the ongoing conflict caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This situation marks a significant shift, as Russia had previously competed in the Olympics under various names, yet this year they are completely absent due to sanctions imposed by the International Ice Hockey Federation.

The context of Russia's exclusion underscores the continuing impact of international politics on sporting events. The Russian Olympic Committee had participated in the past two Olympic Games, evoking both pride and controversy. However, as the war in Ukraine persists, the repercussions for the Russian sports community grow more severe, illustrating a broader trend where geopolitical conflicts influence athletes' abilities to compete on the world stage.

As the tournament approaches, discussions around best-on-best hockey return to the forefront, yet they are inevitably tempered by the realities of the political landscape. Players and fans alike are reminded that the spirit of competition is deeply interwoven with the global political climate, showcasing the ongoing debate over how to balance sportsmanship and national integrity in a turbulent world.