FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed support for lifting the four-year ban imposed on Russia from international football tournaments. Speaking to Sky Sports, Infantino argued that the sanctions have achieved nothing but created frustration and hatred. He said Russian boys and girls should be allowed to play football across Europe and that no country should be deprived of the sport because of its political leaders’ actions.

Russia’s national and club teams have been suspended from FIFA and UEFA competitions since February 2022, following the invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian Sports Minister Matvii Bidnyi criticized Infantino’s remarks as irresponsible and childish, saying they detach football from the reality where children are being killed. UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin stated that Russia’s reintegration should only occur after the war in Ukraine ends.

Infantino also supported FIFA’s decision to award a peace prize to U.S. President Donald Trump during the 2026 World Cup draw, saying those who contribute to peace should be recognized.