FIFA informs first measures against Russia and leaves open the possibility of “possible exclusion from competitions”

Days after the military attack initiated by Russia against Ukraine, FIFA spoke to present a list of measures related to the Russians. To do this, the highest football entity met with representatives of UEFA, the six continental confederations and followed the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

In the first instance, FIFA confirmed that “no international competition will be played on the territory of Russia, and the ‘home’ matches will be played on neutral territory and without spectators”expresses the statement released this Sunday.

Likewise, the entity headed by Gianni Infantino resolved that “the member association representing Russia will participate in any competition under the name ‘Russian Football Union (RFU)’ and not ‘Russia’”adds the official note.

The latest preventive measure reported by FIFA highlighted that “The Russian flag and anthem shall not be used at matches involving teams of the Russian Football Union.”, says the report presented by the sports institution.

In another part of the statement, FIFA announced that it will continue to be in contact with sports entities to take other measures. In this sense, the position of the maximum federation is clear: “Determine any additional measures or sanctions, including a possible exclusion from competitions, to be applied in the near future if the situation does not improve quickly”.

The claim of Poland, Sweden and the Czech Republic

On Saturday, the president of the Polish Federation, Cezary Kulesza, expressed on Twitter that “The national team has no intention of playing the playoff game against Russia”. This initiative was endorsed by team captain Robert Lewandowski. Along the same lines, the headline added that “We are in talks with the federations of Sweden and the Czech Republic to present a common position to FIFA”.

On this, FIFA also ruled: “Good note has been taken of the positions expressed through social networks… and it has already entered into a dialogue with all these football associations. FIFA will remain in close contact to jointly seek appropriate and acceptable solutions.”indicates the note.

Poland should initially face Russia on March 24 in Moscow in the semi-final of their play-off, a match organized by FIFA. If the Russians beat the Poles, they should then host either Sweden or the Czech Republic on March 29, who meet on 24th in the other semi-final.