Ukraine slams Infantino’s remarks on Russia’s International return | OneFootball

FIFA president’s remarks trigger immediate backlash

Ukraine slams Infantino’s remarks on Russia’s International return

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said football should consider bringing Russia back into international tournaments after its 2022 ban.

Infantino speaks on Russia ban

FIFA president Gianni Infantino suggested that the football world may need to reconsider the suspension placed on Russia’s national teams & clubs.

Russia has been banned from FIFA & UEFA competitions since February 2022 following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

The decision was taken after several European teams announced they would not play or host Russian sides.

In interview with Sky News, Infantino said FIFA should look at the possibility of allowing Russia to return arguing that the ban has not achieved its goals.

“The ban has not helped”

Infantino explained that, in his view, the suspension has only increased frustration and anger rather than solving anything.

He added that allowing Russian boys and girls to play football across Europe could be positive step especially at youth level.

Infantino stressed that football should not block young players because of decisions made by political leaders.

The FIFA president said that “someone must keep the door open” suggesting that sport can play a role in easing tensions rather than deepening divisions.

UEFA & Ukraine respond strongly

Infantino’s comments quickly drew criticism especially from Ukraine.

Ukraine’s sports minister Matvii Bidnyi described the remarks as “irresponsible” & “childish” saying they separate football from the reality of war.

He warned that Russia has used sport as political tool and supported the position of the Ukrainian Football Association against any return.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin also repeated a clear stance saying Russia can only be welcomed back once the war ends.

He had previously made the same point during UEFA’s congress in April.

Suspension since 2022

Russian clubs and the national team have been excluded from international football for nearly four years.

FIFA and UEFA have maintained the ban since the start of the conflict making Russia unable to compete in European or global tournaments.

Infantino has spoken in the past about wanting Russia back in football saying it would only happen when broader problems are resolved.