US EditionUkraine sports minister slams FIFA president’s consideration of Russia rejoining
Ukraine's sports minister calls FIFA president's proposal to lift Russia's ban irresponsible amid ongoing war and over 650 Ukrainian athletes killed, highlighting sport's politicization.
- This week, Ukraine's sports minister called Gianni Infantino's comments irresponsible and said the Russia ban has not achieved anything, only creating more frustration and hatred.
- Since 2022, FIFA and UEFA banned Russia from international competition after its invasion, but in 2023 allowed under-17 teams to compete under neutral names, colours, and without national symbols.
- Ukraine highlighted the human toll, saying more than 650 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have been killed since Russia's full-scale aggression, including more than one hundred footballers.
- The Ukrainian Association of Football warned against Russia's return to international competitions, with Bidnyi sharing that stance, while Infantino opposes bans for political leaders' acts.
- Ukrainian officials say Russia politicises sport and use it to justify aggression; Bidnyi called Infantino's remarks irresponsible and infantile, deepening diplomatic tensions.
32 Articles
32 Articles
European Commissioner for Sport Glen Mikalef condemned the initiative of FIFA President Infantino to lift bans on Russia's participation in international tournaments.
Fifa President Gianni Infantino wants to bring Russia back to the international football stage. Leading voices from Germany and Ukraine react outragedly.
Gianni Child's Declaration was strongly criticised by the government of Ukraine. Putin's country has been out of competition since the beginning of the war and has not participated in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Infantino's proposal to lift the sanctions imposed on Russia meets with fierce criticism. Ukraine strongly condemns the advance.
"I fully support the FIFA president's statements that Russia should be brought back," says Dame N'Doye.
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