Russian Football Union ´categorically disagrees´ with FIFA and UEFA ban

The Russian Football Union (RFU) has responded to the ban of Russian teams by FIFA and UEFA, saying it “categorically disagrees with” and could yet challenge the decision.

The two governing bodies have suspended Russian teams from club and international competitions until further notice, denying them entry to the 2022 World Cup and Women’s Euro 2022.

Spartak Moscow will be removed from the Europa League, where they had been set to face RB Leipzig in the last 16.

The sanctions were imposed on Russia on Monday following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine last week.

A subsequent statement from the RFU suggested it could investigate avenues for an appeal “in accordance with international sports law”.

It read: “The Russian Football Union categorically disagrees with the decision of FIFA and UEFA to suspend all Russian teams from participating in international matches for an indefinite period.

“We believe that this decision is contrary to the norms and principles of international competitions, as well as to the sporting spirit.

“It is obviously discriminatory in nature and harms a huge number of athletes, coaches, employees of clubs and national teams, and most importantly, millions of Russian and foreign fans, whose interests international sports organisations should primarily protect.

“Such actions divide the world sports community, which has always adhered to the principles of equality, mutual respect and independence from politics.

“We reserve the right to challenge the decision of FIFA and UEFA in accordance with international sports law.”