FIFA Seeks Clarification Over Crimean Clubs’ Affiliation with Russia
The International Football Federation (FIFA) has sought clarification regarding the status of Crimean football clubs following recent developments in the region.
On Wednesday, FIFA issued a statement confirming that it had not received any formal applications from the two Crimean clubs—FC Sevastopol and Tavria Simferopol—to join the Russian Football Union (RFU).
Crimea, which is internationally recognized as part of Ukraine, has two clubs currently competing in the Ukrainian Premier League: FC Sevastopol, positioned 12th, and Tavria Simferopol, placed last in 15th. Despite their participation in the Ukrainian league, the RFU announced that it had already begun steps to incorporate these Crimean clubs into the Russian football system.
A FIFA official clarified the situation, telling AFP: “FIFA has not received any requests from Crimean clubs to join Russia.” This statement underscores FIFA’s ongoing scrutiny of the issue, which is sensitive due to the political complexities surrounding Crimea’s annexation by Russia in 2014.
While FIFA’s official stance is that no such applications have been made, the RFU’s assertion that it is working to integrate the Crimean clubs into the Russian Championship could create a potential clash between the global governing body and Russia, especially if any formal applications are later submitted.
The situation highlights the ongoing tensions in international football governance, as political disputes continue to intersect with the sport.
