Sport · Handball · Published 16 July 2026
Sweden could face Russia again after handball ban is lifted
DailySweden Editorial Desk
Updated 09:33 · 1 min read
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Swedish national teams could again meet Russia or Belarus in international handball after the sport's world governing body lifted its suspension of teams and representatives from the two countries.
The International Handball Federation's decision took effect on Wednesday, 15 July, following the International Olympic Committee's decision to end its suspension, SVT reported.
Russia and Belarus may now take part in competitions sanctioned by the IHF, including world championships, but must first qualify. The change does not cover European championships, which are organised by the European Handball Federation rather than the IHF.
Sweden can therefore be drawn against either country in a future IHF competition or qualifying route. Sports Minister Jakob Forssmed called the IOC's earlier decision to allow a return deplorable when it was announced on 7 July.
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