Andriy Shevchenko, president of the Ukrainian Football Association, stated that the FIFA Council is not currently considering the return of Russian teams to international competitions amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. He announced plans to meet FIFA President Gianni Infantino to reiterate Ukraine's firm opposition. Shevchenko emphasized strong support from other associations, ensuring the issue remains off the table for now.
At a press conference on February 9, 2026, at the Kyiv House of Football, Andriy Shevchenko, president of the Ukrainian Football Association (UAF), addressed recent comments by FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the potential readmission of Russian teams to international football.
Shevchenko began by highlighting the UAF's immediate response to Infantino's interview, where the FIFA leader suggested lifting the ban on Russian participation. 'I want to start with the main news of the week. This is about FIFA President Gianni Infantino's interview about the possible admission of Russians to football. The UAF reacted immediately. You all saw our statement. We clearly expressed our position, which is unchanged - as long as the war continues, we are categorically against the return of Russians to football,' Shevchenko said.
He noted ongoing communications with FIFA representatives at various levels, confirming that the FIFA Council is not deliberating on Russia's return—a point echoed by European media. Shevchenko plans to meet Infantino personally to provide detailed information about the war in Ukraine and reinforce the UAF's stance. 'Colleagues from various associations support us. As long as this support is maintained and unified, the return of Russians to competitions is not being considered,' he added.
Infantino had argued in a Sky News interview that the suspension has 'achieved nothing, it has only created more frustration and hatred,' and proposed allowing Russian youth teams to play in Europe to foster unity. His remarks drew sharp criticism from Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, who highlighted that nearly 700 Ukrainian children have been killed by Russia and can no longer play football. The European Commission also condemned the call, while figures like Czech ice hockey legend Dominik Hašek and Ukrainian sports leaders voiced opposition.
Beyond the international issue, Shevchenko discussed domestic matters, such as challenging discriminatory quotas on Ukrainian players in Europe under EU agreements, securing positive outcomes from Spain, France, the Netherlands, and Germany. He also announced new regulations ensuring direct compensation for youth coaches, recognizing their role in developing talent.
The UAF's position underscores the intersection of sport and geopolitics, with Ukraine insisting on maintaining sanctions until the war ends.
