Russia Returns to FIFA Competition in U-15 World Cup

Russia is set to compete in a FIFA event for the first time since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine after being included in the Under-15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan. The Russian team was drawn alongside Turkey, Afghanistan, Djibouti, Sierra Leone and Sudan in the tournament, which is open to teams from all 211 FIFA member associations. FIFA’s decision represents a limited easing of sanctions: Russia’s senior national teams and clubs remain barred from major competitions, including UEFA events, while the youth tournament is intended to expand opportunities for developing football nations. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the broader ban has produced frustration rather than results, but Ukraine’s sports minister condemned the stance as detached from the ongoing war and the deaths of children.