The media reported on the possibility of UEFA blocking the return of Russian teams

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) may block the return of Russian teams to the international arena due to pressure from the national football associations of England, Germany and France. This was reported on July 8 by The Guardian newspaper, citing sources in several federations.

According to the British edition, the largest Western European sports organizations are still categorically opposed to the admission of Russians to competitions. A similar situation developed in 2023, when UEFA was forced to refuse admission to the Russian junior national teams under 17 years of age under pressure from a number of union members.

Sources note that UEFA President Alexander Ceferin plans to be re-elected for a new term in 2027. For this reason, the head of the organization does not intend to risk the support of a significant part of his electorate by making a decision in favor of the Russian Federation.

At the same time, the International Football Federation FIFA takes a more open position on this issue. Disagreements between the parties may lead to a new conflict between the organizations.

Olympic movements: what changes the restoration of Russian sports rights

When will athletes from the Russian Federation be able to compete under the national flag and participate in international tournaments at home?

On the eve, Sky News journalist Rob Harris reported that FIFA will discuss and analyze the possibility of complying with the recommendations of the International Olympic Committee regarding the lifting of sanctions against Russian national teams.

On that day, the IOC temporarily suspended sanctions against Russian athletes. The organization's Executive Committee has fully restored the status of the Russian Olympic Committee, lifting all previous restrictions on international cooperation.