The thought of seeing a Russian jersey on the ice makes me want to vomit, said the Slovak.

Most European hockey powers have announced a boycott of matches against Russia at the World Championship, but Slovakia has not joined. Former player Boris Valábik expressed strong feelings against seeing the Russian jersey on the ice, stating he would not play against Russia under current circumstances. The Slovak Ice Hockey Federation respects international decisions and awaits further steps from the IIHF. Valábik emphasized his European and Slovak identity, criticizing the CAS decision as a legal rather than a moral one. The IIHF is seeking ways to comply with the CAS ruling while still opposing Russia's return to international competitions.