Russian soccer chiefs vote against switch to join Asia

The Russian Soccer Union (RFU) has voted in opposition to switching its soccer federation membership to Asia from Europe.

Russian information companies reported on Wednesday that soccer chiefs had opted to remain within the European fold as Moscow seems to be eyeing progress in relations with UEFA.

International and European soccer’s governing our bodies, FIFA and UEFA, determined in February 2022 that each one Russian groups, whether or not nationwide or membership sides, could be suspended from participation of their competitions after Moscow launched what it calls a “particular army operation” in Ukraine.

Russia was contemplating becoming a member of the Asian Soccer Confederation (AFC), the RFU head Alexander Dyukov stated late final 12 months.

“The query (of shifting to the AFC) was mentioned. We unanimously voted in opposition to as there aren’t any ensures from FIFA,” the RIA information company quoted RFU committee member Mikhail Gershkovich as saying on Wednesday.

“We’ve got determined to proceed contacts with UEFA, particularly as there’s progress.

“Let’s examine how the scenario develops subsequent 12 months.”

FIFA and UEFA have proven indicators of enjoyable restrictions on Russian youth groups in current months.

UEFA in September stated “youngsters shouldn’t be punished for actions whose duty lies completely with adults”, however later deserted a plan to reinstate Russia’s Beneath-17 sides to European competitors.

FIFA in October did choose to elevate Russia’s ban from worldwide soccer by permitting under-17 ladies and boys groups from the nation to participate in tournaments.

That transfer was conditional on these groups taking part in below the title of the ‘Soccer Union of Russia’ moderately than Russia, and taking part in in impartial colors, with out their nationwide flag, nationwide anthem, national-team equipment and tools, FIFA stated on the time.