MEPs Urge FIFA to Exclude Russia from U-15 World Cup

Forty-four members of the European Parliament have called on FIFA President Gianni Infantino to exclude Russia from this year’s Under-15 World Cup in Azerbaijan.

According to European Pravda, the lawmakers argued that while Ukrainian children are being denied opportunities to play sports because of the war and thousands have been deported to Russia, Moscow is using sport to promote nationalism and justify its aggression.

They said the display of the Russian flag and other state symbols at FIFA events would insult the families of victims of Russian attacks. The signatories urged FIFA to bar Russia until Moscow agrees to a ceasefire, enters peace negotiations and returns the deported children.

The lawmakers also warned that Russia’s participation would undermine sporting principles and could prompt Ukraine and other countries to boycott the tournament.

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