UEFA is “prepared to block the return of Russian teams” to international soccer after the IOC provisionally lifted the country’s suspension from global competition. FIFA has indicated that it will “review its position after imposing a ban on Russian teams in the wake of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine four years ago.” It said on Tuesday it would “analyse the decision before deciding on next steps.” UEFA’s stance sets up “another potential clash” with FIFA. Sources said that there is “no realistic prospect of Russian sides being welcomed back into European football, and by extension the World Cup, because, although that is a FIFA tournament, European qualifying is run by UEFA” (London GUARDIAN, 7/8).
UEFA could block Russian return to international soccer
