FIFA, football’s world governing body, has imposed measures on Russia “to reiterate its condemnation of the use of force by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine”.
Russia will not be able to play at home and the team must compete under the name “Football Union of Russia” (RFU). There will be no flags or anthems allowed.
They have also not ruled out “a potential exclusion from competitions”, should the conflict escalate.
The decision was made in co-ordination with UEFA, European football’s governing body, FIFA said.
However, Poland, Sweden, and Czech Republic have said that their national teams have will not play against Russia should the teams meet in the World Cup play-offs.
Russia are scheduled to play Poland on March 24 in Moscow, with the winner of that slated to play Czech Republic or Sweden on March 29 for the chance to reach the finals in Qatar.
Cezary Kulesza, head of the Polish FA, reiterated on Sunday evening that Poland would not participate in a match against Russia.
He said: “FIFA’s decision today is unacceptable to us. In the situation of war in Ukraine, we are not interested in the game of appearances. Our position remains unchanged: the national team Polish will not play against Russia in the play-off match, regardless of the name of the Russian team.”
FIFA’s statement read: “First and foremost, FIFA would like to reiterate its condemnation of the use of force by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. Violence is never a solution and FIFA expresses its deepest solidarity to all people affected by what is happening in Ukraine.
“FIFA calls again for the urgent restoration of peace and for constructive dialogue to commence immediately. FIFA remains in close contact with the Ukrainian Association of Football and members of the Ukrainian football community who have been requesting support to leave the country for as long as the current conflict persists.
“No international competition shall be played on the territory of Russia, with “home” matches being played on neutral territory and without spectators.
“The member association representing Russia shall participate in any competition under the name “Football Union of Russia (RFU)” and not “Russia”
“No flag or anthem of Russia will be used in matches where teams from the Football Union of Russia participate.”
FIFA did not rule out imposing further measures – including “a potential exclusion from competitions”.
FIFA said it “will continue its ongoing dialogue with the IOC, UEFA and other sport organisations 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”.
Earlier on Sunday afternoon, The FA announced that England would not play against Russia at any level of international competition.
