UK's Johnson says it's 'inconceivable' that Russia hosts Champions League final
Russia should not be allowed to host soccer events such as the Champions League final after Russian president Vladimir Putin recognised two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Tuesday.
Britain said that it would discuss the location of the Champions League final, which is scheduled to take place in St Petersburg in May, with the relevant governing bodies.
Asked whether he would push for the Champions League final to be moved, Johnson told lawmakers: "I think it inconceivable that major international football tournaments can take place in Russia after... the invasion of a sovereign country."
Nadine Dorries, Britain's minister for sport, said that Britain would raise the issue with soccer authorities.
"I have serious concerns about the sporting events due to be held in Russia, such as the Champions League Final, and will discuss with the relevant governing bodies," Dorries said in a tweet.
"We won’t allow President Putin to exploit events on the world stage to legitimise his illegal invasion of Ukraine."
European soccer governing body UEFA said it was closely monitoring the situation.
"In regards to 2022 UEFA Champions League final in St Petersburg, UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation and any decision would be made in due course if necessary," UEFA told Reuters in a statement.
The 2021 final, which saw Chelsea defeat fellow English Premier League club Manchester City, was also set to be played in St Petersburg but eventually moved to Porto due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Poland seeks clarity from FIFA over World Cup playoff v Russia
Poland's Football Association (PZPN) on Tuesday sought clarity from global soccer governing body FIFA on the national team's World Cup playoff against Russia in Moscow next month, after Russia ordered troops into breakaway regions of Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin granted official recognition to two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine on Monday, triggering Western condemnation and fuelling fears of a military confrontation in the region.
"The Polish FA has asked FIFA to urgently clarify the issues related to the organisation of the match," the PZPN said in a statement, adding it hoped to provide players with optimal conditions to prepare for and play international games.
The playoff match between Russia and Poland to secure a spot at this year's World Cup in Qatar is scheduled for March 24.
The PZPN acknowledged that political decisions, such as possible sanctions against Russia, remain the responsibility of the state authorities and international bodies.
"However, being aware of potential threats connected to the current situation, we are waiting for the position of the world federation authorities," it said.
It added that the matter also concerned Sweden and the Czech Republic, who could potentially face Russia in Moscow in the playoff final.
