FIFA president Gianni Infantino has questioned the effectiveness of Russia’s continued suspension from international football, arguing that the ban has failed to deliver its intended outcome.
Russia has been barred from FIFA and UEFA competitions since 2022, following the country’s invasion of Ukraine. The decision excluded Russian national teams and clubs from World Cups, European Championships and all European club tournaments.
In comments to Sky News, Infantino said the prolonged ban had not contributed to dialogue or resolution, and had instead reinforced divisions.
“This ban has achieved nothing, it has only produced more frustration and disappointment” he said.
Infantino pointed to developments elsewhere in global sport, including guidance from the International Olympic Committee, which has encouraged federations to consider limited returns for Russian athletes particularly at youth level under neutral status and strict conditions.
While Russia remains excluded from official FIFA and UEFA competitions, its national team has continued to play international friendlies against countries willing to engage outside formal tournament structures, including several African nations. Nigeria’s Super Eagles drew 1-1 with Russia in Moscow in one such match.
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Infantino’s remarks are likely to intensify debate within world football over the role of sport in political sanctions, and whether long-term exclusion remains an effective tool when alternative pathways to competition exist.
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Any change to Russia’s status would require approval from FIFA’s decision-making bodies and coordination with UEFA, with the issue expected to remain highly sensitive.
