Russia Readmitted to European U17 Competitions After 19 Months of Suspension
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Uefa, the governing body of European football, has confirmed that Russia will be readmitted to European U17 competitions for the first time since the country’s invasion of Ukraine 19 months ago. Uefa believes that boys and girls should not be punished for the actions of adults, and has reiterated its commitment to sending messages of peace and hope.
Background on the Suspension
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In February 2022, Uefa suspended all Russian teams from European competitions in response to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia. This suspension included revoking hosting rights for the 2022 Champions League final and 2023 Super Cup, which were due to be held in Saint Petersburg and Kazan respectively, as well as cancelling the sponsorship contract with state-owned energy giant Gazprom. All other Russian teams remain suspended, and Uefa has reiterated its condemnation of Russia’s illegal war and its commitment to take a stand against violence and aggression until the war is over and peace restored.
Uefa’s Decision to Readmit Russia
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Uefa’s executive committee has asked the organisation’s administration to “propose a technical solution” to allow teams back into U17 competitions even if they have already started. The matches will not be played in Russia and the teams will not be allowed wear the national kit, display their flag or play their anthem. Uefa believes that by providing opportunities to play and compete with their peers from all over Europe, it is investing in what it hopes will be a brighter and more capable future generation and a better tomorrow.
President Aleksander Ceferin explained that by banning children from competitions, Uefa not only fails to recognise and uphold a fundamental right for their holistic development but also directly discriminates against them. He added that Uefa’s continuing suspension against Russian adult teams reflects its commitment to take a stand against violence and aggression until the war is over and peace restored.
The next Under-17 male European Championship finals are due to be played in Cyprus next year, while the women’s equivalent will be held in Sweden next May.
Conclusion
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Uefa’s decision to readmit Russia to European U17 competitions is a positive step towards restoring peace and hope in the region, while also providing opportunities for children to develop their skills and compete with their peers from all over Europe. Uefa is committed to taking a stand against violence and aggression until the war is over and peace is restored, while also ensuring that children are not punished for the actions of adults.