“FIFA and UEFA will begin to understand that our football is not tied to politics” – Boris Ignatiev

FIFA and UEFA are beginning to understand that Russian football is not tied to political aspects, says former coach of the Russian national team Boris Ignatiev.

As it became known to Match TV, FIFA will not interfere with Russia’s participation in the selection for the 2026 World Cup when moving to the AFC. A Match TV source in FIFA noted that this could be a decisive argument for the transfer of the RFU to the AFC.

– If we are part of the AFC and play in the selection for the 2026 World Cup, then in this case this decision by FIFA can be considered extremely positive. It is important for our federation that the national team takes an active part in international competitions. All this is decided in terms of competitive strength and finances.

I don’t think this decision is primarily due to the close relationship between FIFA and UEFA. Everything goes to the fact that they are beginning to understand that our football is in no way tied to political aspects. Now it is clear that FIFA officials do not live in an airless space.

Yes, now it may seem that everything is tied to big politicians and finances, but the last decisions are still made by big officials. Ultimately, FIFA and UEFA will review everything that has been done this year. Their inner voice is already saying: “Without Russian football, the spirit of competition and entertainment is lost,” Ignatiev told Sport24.

The Executive Committee of the RFU last week postponed the decision to move to the AFC. RFU President Alexander Dyukov said that the final decision would be made on December 27. Until the 31st, the RFU has time to apply for entry so that the Russian team has time to take part in the 2026 World Cup qualification.