FIFA imposes penalties on Russia but stops short of World Cup ban
FIFA announced initial measures concerning Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine, which includes the nation still being allowed to compete in next month's World Cup playoffs.
As part of the FIFA-imposed penalties, Russia will have to compete under the name "Football Union of Russia (RFU)."
While also announcing that the Russian national team must play upcoming matches at neutral venues, world football's governing body said that excluding Russia remains a possibility if the situation in Ukraine worsens.
"FIFA will continue its ongoing dialogue with the IOC, UEFA, and other sport organizations to determine any additional measures or sanctions, including a potential exclusion from competitions, that shall be applied in the near future should the situation not be improving rapidly," FIFA's statement read.
Additionally, the Russian anthem and flag can't be associated with the country's football team.
Poland, Sweden, and the Czech Republic issued statements this weekend outlining their refusal to play World Cup playoff matches against Russia. Poland is scheduled to play the Russians in a World Cup playoff semifinal on March 24.
FIFA reached out to all three nations in an attempt "to seek to find appropriate and acceptable solutions together."
However, Poland reaffirmed its position to boycott play with Russia moments after FIFA's announcement.
"Today's FIFA decision is totally unacceptable," Poland's football association president Cezary Kulesza said. "We are not interested in participating in this game of appearances. Our stance remains intact: Polish national team will not play with Russia, no matter what the name of the team is."
Sweden also confirmed its decision to reject playing against Russia in potential World Cup playoff games, according to Rob Harris of The Associated Press.
The English FA announced Sunday that its teams won't compete against Russia at any level for the foreseeable future in a decision taken "out of solidarity with Ukraine and to wholeheartedly condemn the atrocities being committed by the Russian leadership."
Additionally, France football federation president Noel Le Graet said FIFA should ban Russia from competing in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar later this year.
FIFA's unanimous ruling involved president Gianni Infantino and presidents from all six confederations while also following recommendations from the International Olympic Committee.