Znaroks suspended in final

25 May 2014 | Fredrik Pålsson

Team Russia's head coach Olegs Znaroks will miss the final after a suspension following the semi final yesterday. Sweden's assistant coach Richard Grönborg also suspended for bronze medal game.

There was a lot of feelings at the end of the semi final game between Russia and Sweden. Mikael Backlund was ejected for a charging and both teams were very upset at each other. At the bench the Russian head coach Znaroks and the Swedish assistant coach Grönborg had a heated exchange with Znaroks making a throat-slashing gesture towards Grönborg while Grönborg replied with yelling obscene words.

For those actions the duo has been suspended for the final and bronze medal game. In the case of Znaroks, he was found to be in violation in accordance with IIHF Rule 551 D)3 for making an obscene gesture to Grönborg while Grönborg was found to be in violation of Rule 551 D)2 which states that: Any team official who makes a travesty of, or is detrimental to the conduct of the game shall be assessed a match penalty. Grönborg, was suspended for making, according to the IIHF Rulebook “a travesty of the game by conducting himself in a detrimental manner by directing foul and profane language” toward coach Znaroks.

As a result of the suspension Znaroks and Grönborg will not be allowed to be involved with the team in any manner prior to or during the game, also including post-game ceremonies.