“An expected decision, the world now treats proud Russia this way” – Lovchev on the suspension of the football team

The news about the non-admission of the Russian national team to the draw for the European Championship 2024 is not surprising, the world now treats the country this way, former defender of the USSR national team Evgeny Lovchev told Match TV.

UEFA and FIFA in February announced the suspension of the Russian national team from participation in tournaments under their auspices due to events in Ukraine “until further notice”. On Tuesday, the RFU announced that the players of the national team will not take part in the draw for the UEFA EURO 2024 qualifying tournament.

– The decision is expected. If only one person, Infantino or Ceferin, had participated, they would probably have voted differently. But, given how the world now relates to proud Russia, the decision is expected.

Did you have hope for a different outcome?

– No, it was not. I’ll give you an example. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is German. When the Champions League final was moved from St. Petersburg, he said that Russia should be punished.

I want to say to him: “What nationality are you? Are you german. You must kneel before the whole world for the rest of your life.” And he stands and argues that Russia should be punished. You should be punished for the 45th year. It is clear to me that these people are inadequate.

– Can we regard this decision as an extension of sanctions for another 2 years?

“Yes, I think we won’t participate for another 2 years,” Lovchev said.

EURO 2024 will be hosted by Germany.