Ukraine Slams FIFA Over Talk Of Russia’s Return To World Football

Tensions have erupted once again between Ukraine and global sporting body FIFA after its president, Gianni Infantino hinted that Russia might be welcomed back into the international football arena. For Ukrainians, who are marking year four of a painful and destructive conflict, the timing and sentiment behind the comment could not feel more out of touch.

Ukraine Pushes Back Against Infantino’s Remarks

Ukraine’s sports minister Matvii Bidnyi did not mince his words after Infantino suggested that Russia’s ban had not “achieved anything” and had instead caused “more frustration and hatred.”

To Bidnyi, these comments felt detached from the real human cost of the conflict. He stressed that separating football from the brutal reality of war is impossible when the war has already claimed the lives of civilians, athletes and coaches.

Ukrainian officials say about 100 footballers have been killed since Russia launched its attacks, adding emotional weight to their resistance against Russia’s reintroduction into global football competitions.

A Ban Rooted In Conflict

Russia has been barred from FIFA and UEFA events since the invasion began, a stance widely upheld by the international sports community. For many observers, lifting that ban now would be seen as a step backward for accountability in sport.

In Ukraine, where football has long been intertwined with national pride and resilience, proposed changes like these land heavily. Local fans on social media have expressed anger and disbelief, arguing that Russia should not be given the privilege of returning to competition while the conflict continues to claim lives.

Infantino’s Contradictory Symbolism

Infantino’s remarks have also sparked confusion because of his recent public gestures. Not long ago, he presented Donald Trump with a newly created FIFA Peace Prize, a moment already met with mixed reactions from football communities around the world.

Adding to the complexity is the fact that Infantino himself previously received Russia’s Order of Friendship medal, raising questions about neutrality and the optics of his latest comments.

Global Reaction And A Question Of Timing

While some analysts argue that sport should remain politically neutral, others say neutrality becomes impossible when war reshapes the very fabric of the sporting community. Many fans responding online have sided with Ukraine, pointing out that football cannot preach unity while ignoring violence on the ground.

For now, Infantino’s comments have reopened old wounds and triggered fresh debate about what global football stands for in 2026. Whether this sparks policy changes or becomes another flashpoint in FIFA’s long history of political tension remains to be seen.

{Source:EWN}

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