English FA confirms England will not play matches against Russia

The FA has confirmed that England will not play international matches against Russia for the ‘foreseeable future’, due to the country’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Russia has faced worldwide condemnation for its aggression against Ukraine over the past few weeks. The invasion began in late February, escalating the Russo-Ukrainian War which began in 2014.

Global protests have taken place and new sanctions have been imposed on Russia.

The world of football has also united in its criticism of Russia’s actions. Poland have confirmed they will not compete with them in a World Cup play-off scheduled for March, with Sweden and the Czech Republic echoing that sentiment.

The FA have now confirmed they will not send any of their England teams to play against Russia in the foreseeable future as a result of their military aggression.

Their statement reads: “Out of solidarity with Ukraine and to wholeheartedly condemn the atrocities being committed by the Russian leadership, The FA can confirm that we won’t play against Russia in any international fixtures for the foreseeable future. This includes any potential match at any level of senior, age group or para football.”

Neither the England men’s nor women’s teams had been scheduled to face Russia in 2022.

FIFA have said Russia can play as an ‘RFU’ team without their flag or anthem, but they may be banned from World Cup qualification regardless.