Russia has been removed as the host of the men's ice hockey world championships in 2023

Alex Ovechkin (8) of the Washington Capitals is tripped by Toronto Maple Leaf's goaltender Erik Kallgren (50) during the third period of an NHL hockey game on Sunday, April 24, 2022, in Washington. After the game, Ovechkin left with an injury. Image Credit: AP.

AP: The 2023 world championship in men's ice hockey, which was to be held in Vladimir Putin's home city of St. Petersburg, was canceled on Tuesday.

The International Ice Hockey Federation announced the decision after its ruling council met, citing "concern for the safety and well-being of all participating players, officials, media, and fans."

The latest setback for Russia in its favorite winter sports comes only one day after the International Skating Union canceled its trademark annual international figure skating tournament in the wake of the country's conflict with Ukraine.

"Significant concerns have been made by IIHF officials regarding the safe travel of players and officials too, from, and within Russia," according to the IIHF.

Last month, Russia was removed from the 2023 World Juniors event for similar reasons. The championship was scheduled to take place in Omsk and Novosibirsk.

Russia had committed to constructing a new 23,000-seat arena for the men's world championships, which were scheduled to take place in May 2023.

The governing body announced that a new host will be chosen for the men's world championships, which begin next month in Finland.