Russia’s national side ordered by FIFA to play matches in neutral countries without their flag, national anthem or fans – and under the name ‘Football Union of Russia’ – in response to the invasion of Ukraine
- Russia must play international games in neutral countries without any fans
- They will also now play under the name ‘Football Union of Russia’
- FIFA have also ruled no Russia flag or national anthem can be used
Russia must play international matches in neutral countries without supporters, world governing body FIFA has announced.
The country will also have to play under the name ‘Football Union of Russia’ and not as ‘Russia’ under new measures issued in response to the Ukraine crisis.
FIFA has also ruled that no Russian flag or national anthem can be used at matches.
Russia’s national side has been ordered to play matches in neutral countries by FIFA after the invasion of Ukraine
Russia is due to participate in the World Cup qualifying play-offs next month but first opponents Poland and the sides they could face in the next round, Sweden and the Czech Republic, have already refused to play against them.
FIFA had faced calls to ban Russia from the competition altogether but, while it has stopped short of that on this occasion, it said in a statement ‘potential exclusion’ remained an option.
The Polish Football Association immediately expressed its dissatisfaction with FIFA’s announcement.
President Cezary Kulesza tweeted: ‘Today’s FIFA decision is totally unacceptable. 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.’
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