FIFA urged to take swift, decisive action against Russia

FIFA is facing growing calls to take decisive action against Russia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

The world governing body has been quiet on the issue since a issuing a statement on Thursday saying it would “continue to monitor the situation” and issue an update “in due course”.

FIFA has since come under pressure with Poland’s football association and players announcing on Saturday they would be boycotting next month’s World Cup qualifier against Russia.

Sweden, who could face Russia in the next round of the play-offs, then also said they would refuse to play the match, with the nation’s football federation calling on FIFA to cancel Russia’s matches.

“The federal board also urges FIFA to cancel the play-off matches in March in which Russia participates,” a statement said.

This came after European counterpart UEFA took a decision on Friday to move its flagship Champions League final from St Petersburg to Paris while other sports, notably Formula One, have moved to cut ties with Russia.

During Saturday’s Premier League action, Aston Villa’s Poland defender Matty Cash was booked after he celebrated a goal by unveiling a message in support of international team-mate Tomasz Kedziora, who plays for Dynamo Kiev and remains in the Ukrainian capital.

Former England striker Gary Lineker, top scorer at the 1986 World Cup, believes FIFA needs to make a strong statement and bar Russia from competing in this year’s tournament in Qatar.

If @FIFAcom gives the World Cup qualifier to Poland and throws out Russia (unless, of course, they pull out of Ukraine), it would send a powerful and meaningful message).

— Gary Lineker