FIFA Refuses To Ban Russia
Zurich (Switzerland), Feb 28: FIFA backed away of suspending Russia from the World Cup qualifiers on Monday despite pressure from the several national federations.
It said, “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). No flag or anthem of Russia will be used in matches where teams from the Football Union of Russia participate.
“With regard to the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers, FIFA has taken good note of the positions expressed via social media by the Polish Football Association, the Football Association of the Czech Republic and the Swedish Football Association and has already engaged in dialogue with all of these football associations. FIFA will remain in close contact to seek to find appropriate and acceptable solutions together.”
The Polish Football Association President Cezary Kulesza called FIFA’s decision “disgraceful”. “Due to the disgraceful decision of FIFA, the Polish FA sent a letter today to all federations in Europe. We presented our position and encouraged them to stand by our side. Because only united we will be strong. No indulgence for Russian aggression against Ukraine,” said Kulesza.
Amid Russia’s invasion into Ukraine, the Football Associations of Poland (PZPN), Sweden (SvFF) and Czech Republic (FACR) expressed their firm position that the playoff matches to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar should not be played in the territory of the Russian Federation.
