England will not play Russia for foreseeable future, says FA
A general view of an England and FA branded corner flag during the UEFA Euro 2021 Under-21 Qualifying Group 3 match at Molineux, Wolverhampton.
The Football Association has confirmed that England will not face Russia in any international fixture for the foreseeable future following the conflict with Ukraine.
Sunday's statement followed announcements by the football associations of Sweden, Poland and the Czech Republic - all future or potential opponents of Russia in the World Cup qualifying play-offs - that they will refuse to take on Russia at any venue.
The FA's statement read: "Out of solidarity with Ukraine and to wholeheartedly condemn the atrocities being committed by the Russian leadership, the FA can confirm that we won't play against Russia in any international fixtures for the foreseeable future.
"This includes any potential match at any level of senior, age group or para football."
Following the Football Association's announcement, FIFA said that Russia will be barred from hosting any international match on home territory, and must play under the banner of the Football Union of Russia without wearing a national flag or playing an anthem.
The world governing body's statement also said that it remained in dialogue with the International Olympic Committee, UEFA and other bodies on potential additional sanctions "including a potential exclusion from competitions".
Earlier on Sunday, the Czech Republic followed Sweden and Poland in announcing they would not play Russia.
Poland were due to meet Russia in a World Cup qualifying play-off next month, with the winner advancing to face either Sweden or the Czech Republic.
As an athlete, I can't pretend nothing is happening?? #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/eL0ccpJhdG
— Robert Lewandowski (@lewy_official) February 26, 2022
The refusal of the three nations to play the fixtures effectively leaves FIFA to decide whether or not to grant Russia clear passage to the World Cup finals or bar the nation entirely.
FIFA's statement added: "With regard to the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifiers, FIFA has taken good note of the positions expressed via social media by the Polish Football Association, the Football Association of the Czech Republic and the Swedish Football Association and has already engaged in dialogue with all of these football associations.
"FIFA will remain in close contact to seek to find appropriate and acceptable solutions together."
Russia have already qualified for this summer's UEFA Women's Euro 2022 which will be hosted by England in July.
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