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2022.03.31 01:17 GMT+8

FIFA set to discuss Russia sanctions in Doha congress

Updated 2022.03.31 01:17 GMT+8
CGTN

Photo by Jozef Durok/Getty Creative via CFP

FIFA is set to hold a meeting in Doha, Qatar on Thursday where decisions over long-term sanctions against Russia are expected to be made.

The talks comes five weeks after the global football body suspended all Russian teams, whether national representative teams or club teams, from participation in both FIFA competitions until further notice.

A similar ban was also announced by UEFA.

The sanctions were in response to Russia’s launch of a military operation in Ukraine on February 24.

"Football is fully united here and in full solidarity with all the people affected in Ukraine," a FIFA statement read at the time. "Both [FIFA & UEFA] Presidents hope that the situation in Ukraine will improve significantly and rapidly so that football can again be a vector for unity and peace amongst people."

Russia appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), but it was upheld while their appeal is heard.

The decision effectively prevented Russia from taking part in World Cup qualifying playoffs played between March 24 and 28.

'Suspension or expulsion of a member association' sits fourth on the agenda of the 72nd FIFA Congress to be held at the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center Doha.

Ukraine's federation is not expected to attend the gathering but the Russian Football Union is likely to be present, according to Reuters.

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