Nokian Tyres plans to withdraw from 2027 IIHF World Championship sponsorship over Russian participation

Nokian Tyres has confirmed it will exit its sponsorship agreement for the 2027 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship should the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) allow Russian teams to participate. The company cited a misalignment between its corporate values and the potential inclusion of Russia in the event.

While the company successfully sponsored the 2026 championship, it has signaled a shift in its partnership strategy. The move reflects growing corporate pressure on sports governing bodies to maintain bans on Russian entities following the ongoing geopolitical situation.

Nokian Tyres is expected to formally conclude its financial and promotional support for the 2027 tournament if the IIHF does not uphold its current exclusion of Russian participants. The company has not provided further details regarding the financial implications of this cancellation.