No home games, no flag, no anthem: World governing body FIFA has imposed first sanctions following Russia’s attack on Ukraine
No more international matches will be played in Russia, home matches will take place on neutral ground. In addition, the anthem will no longer be played at national team matches, nor will the Russian flag be seen.
In addition, the national team will no longer be allowed to play its matches under the name of Russia. In future, they will play under the name of their association, the RFU. This was announced by FIFA on Sunday evening. The decision was taken unanimously and in close consultation with UEFA. FIFA also reserves the right to impose further sanctions. Russia was not excluded from the World Cup play-offs.
At the same time, FIFA once again condemned the “Russian violence during the invasion” and expressed its “deepest solidarity” with all the people affected. In addition, the world governing body called for “the restoration of peace and the immediate establishment of constructive dialogue”.