FIFA opens door to Russian teams after new IOC signal
Illustrative photo: FIFA (Getty Images)
FIFA is preparing to discuss the possible return of Russian teams to international competitions after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC), according to Sky News.
FIFA to review Russia's return
FIFA has begun preparations for formal talks on potentially lifting the ban on Russian teams competing in international tournaments.
According to Sky News, the move follows the IOC's decision to lift the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee and to notify international sports federations of the move.
FIFA confirmed it had received the IOC's notification.
"FIFA has been made aware of the decision taken by the IOC to provisionally lift the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee," the governing body said.
The organization added that it will first assess the IOC's decision before determining its next steps in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
Ban has been in place since 2022
Russian clubs and national teams have been suspended by FIFA and UEFA since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Since then, Russian national teams have been excluded from international competitions, including qualifying tournaments for the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups and the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
The ban was initially introduced in part because several European national associations refused to play matches against Russian teams.
Federations will make the final decision
The IOC no longer recommends that international sports federations maintain blanket bans on Russian teams. However, each federation remains responsible for making its own decision.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has previously said the issue of Russia's return should be reconsidered.
"This ban has not achieved anything; it has just created more frustration and hatred," Infantino said.
FIFA has already allowed Russia's U-15 national team to compete in the FIFA U-15 World Cup, scheduled to take place in Azerbaijan in October.
UEFA had previously abandoned plans to reinstate Russian youth teams after strong opposition from several European football associations.
The IOC stressed that decisions on hosting sporting events in Russia, allowing Russian teams to participate, the use of national symbols, and invitations to Russian officials remain the responsibility of international federations and event organizers.
Ukrainian National Olympic Committee President Vadym Huttsait criticized the IOC's decision to withdraw its recommendation to exclude Russian athletes, saying the move raises serious concerns.
