RFU and RPL said that FIFA’s decision on foreign players will cause irreparable damage to the football industry in Russia

The Russian Football Union (RFU) and the Russian Premier League (RPL) issued a joint statement condemning the decision of the International Football Federation (FIFA) to allow foreign players to suspend contracts with Russian clubs.

FIFA announced this week that foreign players and coaches will have the right to suspend employment contracts with clubs from Russia until June 30, 2023. Earlier, the governing body of world football allowed legionnaires to suspend the contract with Russian clubs until June 30 of this year.

– RFU, RPL and professional clubs of Russia condemn this decision and categorically disagree with it. FIFA has repeatedly declared that sport should remain out of politics, but the position of the organization clearly contradicts this.

We believe that the decision to suspend contracts is contrary to the FIFA statutes, is discriminatory and was taken against one of the members of the football family in the absence of his fault. There were no preliminary consultations and discussions by FIFA representatives with us. The decision completely destroys the principles of contractual stability and the integrity of the competition. It is openly stated that football players and coaches now have the right not to respect contractual obligations.

In addition, questions of economic consequences for Russian football clubs are completely ignored. How to ensure long-term planning and financial stability in a situation where even the most valuable player can leave the team without any compensation? The contract can no longer fully protect both the club and the athlete. This precedent is a bad sign for the entire football industry.

With the hope of preserving the principles laid down in the foundation of world sport, we would like to appeal to all members of the international football community. Please do not abuse the rights granted by FIFA, as their decision is contrary to the fundamental principles of the football family. In the future, a similar situation may affect any federation.

Football should not divide, but unite people in every corner of the globe. The decision will cause irreparable damage to the football industry in Russia. We reserve the right to apply to the courts to protect our interests.