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Infantino Suggests Lifting Russia's Football Ban Amid Conflict

2/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said Russia's ban from international football may not be sustainable, noting it has failed to achieve its goals and has increased frustration.
He proposed allowing Russian youth teams to compete to keep football accessible to all.
Ukrainian Sports Minister Matvii Bidnyi condemned Infantino's remarks as irresponsible, stressing the ongoing suffering from the war and that many lives, including athletes, have been lost.

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Story summary

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said Russia's ban from international football may not be sustainable, noting it has failed to achieve its goals and has increased frustration.
He proposed allowing Russian youth teams to compete to keep football accessible to all.
Ukrainian Sports Minister Matvii Bidnyi condemned Infantino's remarks as irresponsible, stressing the ongoing suffering from the war and that many lives, including athletes, have been lost.