Russia has been banned indefinitely from all World Lacrosse events and qualifiers, the sport’s international governing body announced Tuesday.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has drawn widespread condemnation from the global sports community. World Lacrosse became the latest organization to take action against Russian athletes and officials.
“World Lacrosse strongly condemns the untenable actions of the Russian government. We join the International Olympic Committee and global sports community in taking decisive action in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, in hopes of influencing a swift resolution to Russia's breach of peace and freedom,” World Lacrosse stated in a press release. “Russian teams, athletes and officials have been suspended from participation in World Lacrosse events and related qualifiers until further notice. In addition, no World Lacrosse or European Lacrosse Federation events will be scheduled to take place in Russia.
“Our thoughts are with Ukraine, and we hope for the urgent restoration of peace.”
Russia had been scheduled to compete in the upcoming Men’s European Lacrosse Qualifiers April 11-16 in Wroclaw, Poland. The team last competed in the World Lacrosse Men’s World Championship in 2018, finishing 36th in Israel.