(Reuters) - The Ice Hockey World Championships scheduled for Switzerland in May have been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) said on Saturday. "This is a harsh reality to face for the international ice hockey family, but one that we must accept," IIHF President Rene Fasel said in a statement. "The coronavirus is a global problem and requires major efforts by government bodies to combat its spread. We have to set sport aside for now and support both the government bodies and the ice hockey family." Finland won last year, defeating Canada 3-1 in the final held in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Source: International New York Times March 21, 2020 17:15 UTC