Russia’s young talent is allowed to play in European football competitions again and the DFB is following UEFA’s line. The federal government clearly criticizes the continental association’s decision.
The German Football Association does not want to join a boycott by several nations of games against Russian youth teams and is following UEFA’s line. Hans-Joachim Watzke, the German representative on the Executive Committee of the European Football Union, had previously defended the decision to allow youth teams from Russia to take part in continental competitions again. “At today’s executive board meeting, Hans-Joachim Watzke explained his voting behavior,” said the DFB. “The DFB executive board has taken note of this and is following UEFA’s decision.”
A few days ago, the UEFA Executive Committee decided to allow Russian youth teams to take part in tournaments again – but without an anthem and flag. However, the ban on all Russian senior teams should continue to apply as long as the war of aggression in Ukraine continues. Competitions on Russian soil are also still excluded.
Many countries want to boycott UEFA’s decision
Federal Interior Ministry Nancy Faeser (SPD) sharply criticized the return of Russian teams. “As long as Russia continues its criminal war of aggression against Ukraine, it is completely the wrong way to reopen the door to international sports competitions for Russia and its supporter Belarus,” the ministry said in response to a request from the DPA news agency. “Sports Minister Nancy Faeser has therefore repeatedly spoken out – including to UEFA – against the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes.”
In contrast to Germany, other countries have clearly positioned themselves against the participation of Russian junior teams in international competitions. England, Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, Norway and Finland have announced that they will not play against Russian teams. The men’s U17 European Championships in Cyprus and the women’s U17 European Championships in Sweden will take place in 2024, with qualification beginning in October 2023.
Ukraine has asked UEFA to reconsider the decision and wants to boycott games of its youth teams against Russia. The approach “tolerates Russia’s aggressive policy”. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), itself on an opening course towards Russia, had recommended that only individual athletes be readmitted.
Source: Stern
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