Fifa has ordered Russia to complete their upcoming games in neutral territory and under the name the Football Union of Russia. They must also play without their flag and anthem.
Since the start of the Russian invasion Several nations have announced that they will refuse to play Russia, including England, Wales, as well as Poland, the Czech Republic and Sweden.
World Cup 2022 play-offs would have seen Russia face Poland, before facing either the Czech Republic or Sweden if they win – and are scheduled to be played in March.
Polish football association president Cezary Kulesza said Fifa’s decision was “totally unacceptable”, while the Swedish FA and the Czech Republic FA reiterated their stances that they would not play Russia.
“We are not interested in participating in this game of appearances. Our stance remains intact: Polish National Team will not play with Russia, no matter what the name of the team is,” he said.
Fifa confirmed that they will be meeting with other sporting organisations to decide whether Russia should be expelled from competitions. Fifa would like to reiterate its condemnation of the use of force by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine,” world football’s governing body said in a statement on Sunday.
“Violence is never a solution and Fifa expresses its deepest solidarity to all people affected by what is happening in Ukraine. Fifa will continue its ongoing dialogue with the International Olympic Committee, Uefa and other sport organisations to determine any additional measures or sanctions, including a potential exclusion from competitions, that shall be applied in the near future should the situation not be improving rapidly. Fifa’s thoughts remain with everybody affected by this shocking and worrying situation.”
