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Infantino backs ending Russia’s football ban, says suspension has ‘achieved nothing’. Gianni Infantino said he wants Russia’s ban from international football lifted, arguing the suspension has only fueled “frustration and hatred.” Russian clubs and the national team have been barred from FIFA and UEFA competitions since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Speaking to Sky Sports, Infantino argued football should not punish players for the actions of political leaders and should instead keep “ties open.” He added that allowing Russian children to play matches across Europe could help reduce divisions rather than deepen them. Ukraine’s sports minister Matvii Bidnyi condemned the comments as “irresponsible,” saying they ignore the reality of war and civilian deaths. Aleksander Ceferin has previously stated Russia cannot return to competitions until the war in Ukraine ends. Infantino also defended FIFA’s decision to award a peace prize to Donald Trump at the 2026 World Cup draw, citing efforts to promote peace. The remarks reopen a divisive debate in global football over whether sporting sanctions should remain linked to geopolitical conflicts.
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