Russia welcomes Infantino’s comments on lifting ban; Ukraine furious

FIFA President Gianni Infantino suggested lifting the ban on Russia's participation in international football competitions, imposed after the country's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Infantino stated the ban "has not achieved anything," prompting a strong reaction from both sides. The Kremlin welcomed Infantino's comments, expressing hope for the full restoration of Russian footballers' rights. Conversely, Ukraine denounced the suggestion as irresponsible, asserting the ban should remain as long as Russian aggression continues. UEFA, which has the authority to reinstate Russia, previously considered allowing Russia to compete in Under-17 championships but reversed the decision after boycott threats. UEFA's president maintains that the war in Ukraine must end before Russia can be reinstated.

Ukraine's sports minister, Matvii Bidnyi, criticized FIFA president Gianni Infantino for suggesting the organization would consider lifting the ban on Russia from international football competitions. The ban was imposed in February 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Infantino argued the ban "has not achieved anything" and allowing Russian children to play would help. Bidnyi responded that Infantino's words were "irresponsible" given the ongoing war and the deaths of over 650 Ukrainian athletes, including more than 100 footballers. He accused Russia of politicizing sport and using it to justify aggression, echoing the Ukrainian Association of Football's stance against Russia's return while the conflict continues.