The body governing football in the world, FIFA has given an official update as it concerns the participation of Russia ahead of the qualifying games.
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The attention of FIFA has been called by the football bodies of Poland, Sweden and the Czech Republic in the past few days concerning Russia’s invasion on Ukraine. The football associations has announced on their official social media accounts that they will not be involved in the qualifying series that involves Russia.
However, FIFA released a statement on its official website condemning the decision by Russia to attack Ukraine and has told the football association that they will only play in the qualifying games without the name, flag or national anthem of Russia.
First and foremost, FIFA would like to reiterate its condemnation of the use of force by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. Violence is never a solution and FIFA expresses its deepest solidarity to all people affected by what is happening in Ukraine. FIFA calls again for the urgent restoration of peace and for constructive dialogue to commence immediately. FIFA remains in close contact with the Ukrainian Association of Football and members of the Ukrainian football community who have been requesting support to leave the country for as long as the current conflict persists.To address football-related matters and in coordination with UEFA, the Bureau of the FIFA Council – involving the FIFA President and the six Confederation Presidents – has unanimously decided to take immediate first measures, in line with recommendations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and that will be applicable until further notice: No international competition shall be played on the territory of Russia, with “home” matches being played on neutral territory and without spectators. The member association representing Russia shall participate in any competition under the name “Football Union of Russia (RFU)” and not “Russia.No flag or anthem of Russia will be used in matches where teams from the Football Union of Russia participate
FIFA also spoke about the stand of Poland, Sweden and the Czech Republic as it concerns the qualifying game. The football body confirmed that it has started conversations with the countries.
