In a recent statement, Ukraine’s Sports Minister, Matvii Bidnyi, criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino for his suggestion to reconsider the ban on Russian teams from international football competitions. This ban was established in response to Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine, which began in 2022.
Zelenskyy’s Response to Infantino’s Controversial Comments
Infantino’s comments, made during an interview with Sky News, suggest that the ban on Russian teams has not been effective and has only fueled frustration and resentment. This perspective has sparked outrage among Ukrainian officials, who assert that lifting the ban undermines the ongoing conflict and the suffering of those affected.
Background on the Ban
The ban on Russia was enacted by FIFA and UEFA at the onset of the invasion. It has prevented Russian teams from participating in key international tournaments, including the World Cup. More than 650 Ukrainian athletes and coaches, including over 100 footballers, have lost their lives due to the conflict.
- Year of Ban: 2022
- Casualties: Over 650 Ukrainian athletes and coaches
- Footballers Among the Dead: More than 100
The Impact of the Conflict on Sports
Bidnyi emphasized that the intersection of war and sports should not be used as political leverage. He stated, “War is a crime, not politics,” highlighting that it is Russia that is politicizing sport to normalize its aggression.
Criticism of the International Paralympic Committee
In addition to his comments regarding FIFA, Bidnyi criticized the International Paralympic Committee for its decision to lift the ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes, reinforcing his stance against any normalization of relations with Russia in sports.
The Ukrainian sports minister insists that as long as Russia continues its violence, its presence in any international competition is unjustifiable. He reaffirmed the position of the Ukrainian Association of Football, which firmly opposes Russia’s reintegration into sports.
