FIFA President Gianni Infantino has called for lifting Russia’s ban from international football competitions. He argued the punishment failed to achieve meaningful results.
Russia’s national team and clubs have remained suspended since February 2022. This followed Moscow’s military invasion of Ukraine.
According to Infantino, the four-year ban only deepened frustration and resentment. He believes football should unite people rather than isolate nations.
Therefore, he urged global football authorities to reconsider the long-standing suspension.
Football Should Not Pay for Political Decisions, Says FIFA Chief
Infantino stressed that FIFA should avoid punishing players for political actions taken by leaders. He emphasized that athletes should not carry the burden of government decisions.
Moreover, he said allowing Russian children and youth teams to play abroad could reduce hostility. In his view, football can preserve dialogue when politics fails.
As a result, he insisted that sporting ties must remain open, even during conflict.
Ukraine Reacts Strongly to Infantino’s Remarks
Ukraine’s Sports Minister Matvii Bidnyi sharply criticized Infantino’s statements. He described them as irresponsible and disconnected from reality.
Bidnyi argued that football cannot be separated from ongoing violence. He pointed out that Ukrainian children continue to suffer due to the war.
Consequently, he said such comments ignore the human cost behind the conflict.
UEFA Maintains Firm Stance on Russia’s Return
In contrast to Infantino’s view, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has maintained a clear position. He stated that Russia cannot return until the war ends.
Ceferin reaffirmed this stance during a recent UEFA Congress. He stressed that peace remains a prerequisite for reinstatement.
Thus, European football leadership remains cautious and firm.
Infantino Defends FIFA Peace Prize to Donald Trump
Infantino also defended FIFA’s decision to award a peace prize to United States President Donald Trump. The award was announced during the 2026 World Cup draw.
He said FIFA aims to recognize individuals who contribute to peace efforts. According to him, Trump objectively deserved the recognition.
Therefore, FIFA believes symbolic gestures can encourage dialogue and stability.
FIFA Rejects Political Bans in Other Conflicts
The debate gained further attention when calls emerged to ban Israel over its actions in Gaza. FIFA responded by reiterating its policy against political involvement.
The organization stated that football should remain separate from geopolitical disputes. Hence, consistency remains central to FIFA’s approach.
Growing Divide Over Football’s Role in Global Crises
Infantino’s comments have reignited a global debate over sports and politics. While some support football diplomacy, others demand accountability.
As tensions persist, football’s role as a neutral bridge remains contested.
