“We urge FIFA to stand on the side of peace and not appease the aggressor – Russia,” the letter states.
Following Putin’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, FIFA prohibited Russia from participating in all football competitions. However, in 2023, FIFA lifted the ban for youth competitions, though Russian teams have yet to compete in its U-17 World Cups.
Recently, FIFA announced the upcoming U-15 World Cup, scheduled for October in Azerbaijan, and declared it open to “all FIFA member associations,” potentially allowing Russian participation.
In February, Infantino argued for lifting the ban on Russia, stating that such bans “create more hatred.”
European lawmakers warn that allowing Russian participation might prompt other countries to boycott the competition, a move they deem “very understandable.” This could “distort FIFA sporting events,” undermining fair competition. Ukraine’s football federation has previously decided against participating in events featuring Russia.
In 2022, Russia challenged the FIFA ban at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but the appeal was rejected. Russia’s gradual re-entry into other sports has sparked condemnation in Ukraine and criticism from the EU.
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