Czechia’s Jan Rutta Suspended by IIHF Disciplinary Panel for Elbowing Incident

The 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Disciplinary Panel has announced a one-game suspension for Czechia‘s defenseman, Jan Rutta, following an elbowing incident during the game against Sweden.

The suspension stems from an episode at the 34:20 mark of the 2nd period in the crucial matchup between Czechia and Sweden on 25th May 2024.

According to the disciplinary panel, Rutta’s action violated Official Playing Rule 45 (Elbowing) for extending his elbow and making direct head contact with Sweden’s player, Isac Lundestrom.

The panel highlighted the reckless endangerment caused by Rutta’s elbowing maneuver, which targeted Lundestrom who was without possession of the puck, making him ineligible to be hit.

By separating his arm from the body and delivering a direct blow to the head of Lundestrom, Rutta’s actions were deemed a clear violation of the aforementioned rule.

Consequently, Jan Rutta will sit out of the upcoming final between Czechia and Switzerland due to the imposed suspension.

Despite the suspension, Rutta will be allowed to join his team on the ice for the medal ceremonies following the championship game.