Russia may be on the cusp of rejoining international football competitions as early as next year, following FIFA’s unveiling of a new under-15 tournament explicitly stated to be “open to all associations.” This development arrives nearly two years after Russian national teams and clubs were suspended from FIFA and UEFA competitions in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine.

Previously a prominent host of the 2018 men’s World Cup, Russia has been absent from major international tournaments, including the 2022 World Cup and the recent Euros in Germany. The ban has significantly impacted the nation’s presence on the global football stage, marking a stark contrast to its recent hosting duties.

A recent Olympic Summit recommendation paved the way for this potential shift, suggesting that youth athletes from both Russia and Belarus should be allowed to compete in international events. Crucially, the proposal advocated for their participation under their own national flags and with their anthems playing.

FIFA’s Council confirmed these plans on Wednesday, outlining a new under-15 festival with a boys’ event scheduled for 2025 and a girls’ equivalent set for 2027. A FIFA media release emphasized that these events would be “open to all 211 FIFA member associations,” signaling a broad invitation.

Despite the ongoing sporting sanctions, Russia has maintained its membership within both FIFA and UEFA. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who attended the Olympic Summit, voiced his support for athletes, particularly young ones, stating they “should always be able to participate in sports competitions and not be excluded based on the political situation of their country.”

Infantino further elaborated on the unifying power of sport, asserting that “Sport provides an access to hope, and a way to show that all athletes can respect the same rules and one another.” His comments underscore a philosophy of keeping sport separate from political entanglements.

However, the prospect of Russia’s return has been met with skepticism by senior figures within European football. Concerns have been raised about the practical challenges of readmitting Russia without a broader political resolution, including potential boycotts by other nations or difficulties in securing necessary visas for Russian athletes.

These practical and political hurdles are not new. UEFA’s attempt in 2023 to allow Russia to return at the under-17 level was ultimately abandoned, highlighting the complexities involved in navigating such reintegration processes.

Read Original

Keywords: Russia football return, FIFA new competition, under-15 football tournament, international sports ban, Ukraine invasion impact, Gianni Infantino, youth athlete participation, European football skepticism