Ukraine invasion: Czechs to boycott any Russia World Cup match, Elina Svitolina donates prize money

The Czech Republic have joined Sweden and Poland in saying they will boycott any game against Russia in football's World Cup play-offs as sport continues to react to the invasion of Ukraine.

The International Judo Federation has suspended Russian president Vladimir Putin as its honorary president.

Boxing's world governing bodies the IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO say they will not sanction any title fights in Russia.

Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina will donate prize money to aid efforts.

The world number 15 saysexternal-link the money will used to «support the army and humanitarian needs and help them to defend you, our country».

At the Fencing World Cup in Cairo, Ukraine's men's foil team refused to fence against Russia on Sunday.

«This is our protest against the war. We cannot fence against them while our families are in danger, and everybody is in danger,» said the team.

Meanwhile, Premier League football club Chelsea said the situation in Ukraine was «horrific and devastating».

The statement came after Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, the Russia billionaire who is believed to be close to Putin, was criticised for not mentioning the war when he announced he was handing over «stewardship and care» of the club.

The Czech FA's move puts further pressure on world governing body Fifa to make a decision about the 2022 World Cup play-offs.

«The Czech FA executive committee, staff members and players of the national team agreed it's not possible to play against the Russian national team in the current situation, not even on the neutral venue,» a statement read.

«We all want the war to end as soon as possible.»

The matches — which would see Russia face Poland then either the Czech Republic or Sweden if they win — are due to be played next