Uefa is reportedly ready to block Russian teams from international football, opposing the IOC's provisional lifting of Russia's suspension. Fifa, however, is more open to readmission, creating a potential clash between the governing bodies.
FIFA will review the potential readmission of Russian clubs and national teams to tournaments, following the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) recommendation to lift sanctions on Russian athletes. The IOC restored the Russian Olympic Committee's membership and eased restrictions on July 7.
The International Olympic Committee has lifted its suspension on Russia, allowing Russian athletes to potentially compete at the Los Angeles Olympics. The ban, imposed after the invasion of Ukraine, was lifted after the Russian Olympic Committee removed Ukrainian territories from its jurisdiction. However, decisions on Russian flags and anthems, and hosting events in Russia, remain with international federations.
Russia's Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev stated that FIFA's decision to allow U-15 teams to compete in World Cups is a significant step towards the full return of Russian teams and clubs to international football.
Ukrainian defender Ilya Zabarnyi refused to shake hands with Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov before a PSG friendly match, citing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The players have a strained relationship despite playing together.
The Russian team is currently at the top of the tournament’s standings with six points
