Russia's Exclusion: Reasons and Background
On February 28, 2022, FIFA and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) decided to suspend all Russian national teams and clubs from participation in international competitions "until further notice."
Reason given: This suspension was a direct response to the Russian military invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022.
Justification: The decision was made in a joint statement expressing full solidarity with the Ukrainian people and condemning Russia's hostile actions, and was based on the recommendation of the International Olympic Committee, which called for the exclusion of Russian and Belarusian athletes in order to preserve "the integrity of the competitions and the safety of participants."
Implementation: This decision resulted in the exclusion of the Russian national team from the 2022 World Cup playoffs and the exclusion of Russian clubs, such as Spartak Moscow, from European competitions (Champions League, Europa League, etc.).
In short, Russia was swiftly and categorically excluded for invading a sovereign state, which FIFA considered an attack on international peace and order that threatened the stability of sporting events.
The Israeli Paradox: Why Hasn't Similar Action Been Taken?
Conversely, despite ongoing protests and demands, FIFA has not decided to exclude or suspend the Israeli Football Association from international competitions, despite the strong arguments put forward by its critics:
Official Palestinian Demands: The Palestinian Football Association (supported by several international associations and organizations) demands that FIFA suspend Israel's membership, citing:
The continued occupation's violation of international law and its impact on Palestinian athletes and sports facilities;
The participation of five Israeli clubs from illegal settlements in the Israeli league, in violation of FIFA regulations prohibiting the hosting of matches on the territory of another football association without its consent;
Allegations of discrimination and racism against Palestinian athletes.
FIFA/UEFA Position: In the case of Israel, FIFA and UEFA rely on the principle of "depoliticizing sport," justifying their position as follows:
Lack of international consensus: Unlike the Russian case, which has generated numerous international appeals from major national federations, calls for Israel's expulsion remain rare and less influential among powerful European federations.
Legal and geographical complexity: FIFA considers the claims regarding the settlement teams to be a complex geopolitical issue requiring in-depth investigation. Internal committees have been tasked with studying the issue, which gives it room to procrastinate.
Political protection: Israel has been a member of UEFA since 1994 for historical and political reasons (due to the reluctance of Asian federations to participate), which gives it protection within a powerful European sports system that wields significant influence within FIFA.
Aspirations for Justice and Integrity
The contrast between the speed and firmness of Russia's exclusion and the delay in taking similar measures against Israel reinforces the perception of double standards within sports institutions. This paradox has sparked widespread outrage, especially since FIFA considers itself the guardian of the values of integrity, fair play, and peace.
Many hope that FIFA will apply its guidelines equally and fairly to all member states. The same principles used to condemn military action in Ukraine must be applied to reject any violation of international law affecting sport and athletes everywhere else. The hope is that sporting justice will prevail, so that international sport becomes a space for all, with no room for the aggressor, regardless of their identity or political influence.