Andrei Kovalenko: “The World Cup destroys the Iron Curtain. For the sake of the final Canada – Russia, the NHL will discard any political motives “- Ice Hockey
Andrei Kovalenko that the World Cup can destroy the Iron Curtain.
– How do you perceive the talk that the NHL in 2024 can host the World Cup, moreover, with the participation of the Russian team?
– I think this is great news. The latest world tournaments show that there are problems in hockey, without Belarus and especially Russia, the championships are bigger. The last World Youth Championship is shown.
Because of politics, one of the best players in the world of hockey, in my opinion, was destroyed. At many games in the stands in Edmonton, we saw only specialists, agents and parents of hockey players. A painful sight.
The NHL World Cup in a full-scale format destroyed this iron curtain. Everyone will see that the interests of politicians have been replaced by the interests of sports – and we urgently need to return to common sense.
– The NHL is not yet sure that it will invite the Russian team. your forecast.
– I know the NHL firsthand, it is a tough organization that owns its own business interests. Game for all North Americans Russia is the main irritant.
At one time he said that Canada was interested in the finals with the USA, now the connection is repeated that for Canadians the main rival is the Finns. Believe me, it’s not! Canadians are in the blood with the Russians. Like the Americans.
Therefore, I have no doubt that for the sake of the highest-grossing final, Canada – Russia or USA – Russia, the NHL will discard any public motives. On the contrary, in the current situation, the participation of our team will add “pepper” and ratings to any tournament,” the Olympic champion said.