05/02/2026 Culture, Science, Education and Media
Mogens Jensen (Denmark, SOC), Chairperson of the Committee on Culture, Science, Education and Media, and Kim Valentin (Denmark, ALDE), Chairperson of the Parliamentary Alliance for Good Governance and Integrity in Sport, today made the following statement:
“We have taken note with serious concern of recent statements by FIFA President Gianni Infantino calling for a possible return of Russia to international football,” said Mogens Jensen.
“FIFA decided on 28 February 2022 to suspend Russian national team and clubs from international competitions following Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Nothing has changed in the situation that led to that decision. The war continues, with devastating consequences for Ukraine and its people,” he added.
Recalling Parliamentary Assembly Resolution 2507 (2023) on War of aggression against Ukraine – Participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics? – Mr Jensen stressed that “Russia’s actions constitute a grave violation of international law and of the fundamental values underpinning sport”.
Kim Valentin added, “As long as there is no just and lasting peace in Ukraine, Russia should remain excluded from international football. Any premature reinstatement would undermine the integrity of competitions and the credibility of international football governance.”
Both Chairpersons concluded, “International football must uphold human rights, peace and the rule of law. Until peace is restored, exclusion remains necessary and justified.”