
Canadian hockey players on KHL teams in Russia, Belarus should leave: Ottawa
Global News
Dozens of Canadians play in men's pro leagues across Europe every year. A top KHL player can make over US$1 million a year in salary.
Canadians continue to play hockey for Kontinental Hockey League teams in Russia and Belarus despite the Canadian government’s warning to get out of those countries.
The 48 Canadian players currently on KHL club rosters this season is the most from any country outside Russia.
Forty-four are playing for clubs within Russian and Belarusian borders, with the other four in Kazakhstan.
Russia, with Belarus a supporter, invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.
Canada has been firmly on the side of Ukraine in the conflict with $626 million in military aid and over $320 million in humanitarian assistance since February, as well imposing financial sanctions on Russia and Belarus.
“President (Vladimir) Putin’s war in Ukraine is a war on freedom, on democracy and on the rights of Ukrainians, and all people, to determine their own future,” wrote Adrien Blanchard, press secretary for Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly, in an emailed statement to The Canadian Press.
“As Canadians, these are values we hold dear. Athletes who decide to play and associate with Russia and Belarus should explain their decisions to the public.”
Alberta-based player agent Ritchie Winter, who has three clients in the KHL, says players have a right to make a living in their profession as other Canadians do working in foreign countries.