FIFA may reinstate Russia in international football
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stated the need to review the suspension of the Russian national team. The issue is planned to be discussed at the organization's April congress.
Apr 20, 2026 0
On 2 February, the head of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), Gianni Infantino, spoke in favor of considering the lifting of the ban on Russian national teams. In his opinion, the suspension has not brought positive results, but only intensified negative sentiments.
«This ban has achieved nothing; it has only generated more disappointment and hatred. The opportunity for girls and boys from Russia to play football in other parts of Europe would be beneficial,» Infantino was quoted by Sky News.
According to information from the portal Sport24, based on sources in FIFA, Russia«s return to the international arena could be considered as early as the federation»s next congress in April. This involves the admission of the senior, youth, junior, and women«s national teams.
Among the possible options, a full return with the use of national symbols — the flag and anthem — is being discussed. The likelihood of a positive decision is assessed as high.
Recall that since 2022, Russian football clubs and national teams have been suspended from participating in international tournaments. In July 2025, the president of the Russian Football Union, Alexander Dyukov, allowed for the possibility of lifting the ban by the end of the year, but this did not happen. Earlier, UEFA stated that Russia«s return to European cups is only possible after the end of hostilities in Ukraine.
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