FIFA President Hints at Russia Reinstatement, Sparking Outrage and Trump-Centric Hope
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested the potential reinstatement of the Russian national team into international competitions, a move met with strong condemnation from Ukraine while simultaneously fueling optimistic reactions within Russia, often centering on the role of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Infantino’s recent comments, made during an interview with Sky News, that the existing ban had “achieved nothing… only created more frustration and hatred,” have ignited a firestorm of controversy. The remarks were particularly jarring given that Ukraine remains under ongoing attack by Russian forces.
The response within Russia, however, has been markedly different. A wave of enthusiasm has emerged, with some figures openly attributing a potential shift in FIFA’s stance to Trump’s influence.
According to a former goalkeeper for Spartak Moscow, Anzor Kavazashvili, the change in approach at the head of FIFA is directly linked to Trump. “I expected these words after Russia began to solve all its problems with Trump in a warm, constructive conversation,” he explained, as quoted by sports.ru. “When we are not in a confrontation with the United States, Americans will support us in many ways.”
Infantino himself offered praise for Trump in the same interview, stating that he “played a key role in resolving conflicts, saving lives and saving thousands of people.” This has led to a perception among some Russians that Trump is a key ally. Kavazashvili elaborated, describing Trump as a “wild man” and “showman,” but one who “understands that Russia should not be trifled with or quarreled with, but rather befriended.” He believes Trump’s current favorable disposition towards Russia will influence Infantino to reinstate the team.
The speculation didn’t stop there. Another former Spartak player, Yevgeny Lovchev, proposed a more audacious idea, suggesting Trump should “drag those who vote against our return out of bed and throw them in jail.” He asserted, “He can do it! And no one says a word! He does what he wants,” drawing a parallel to events in Venezuela.
Lovchev expressed confidence that the suspension would soon be lifted, predicting Russia’s potential inclusion in the next World Championship. He also highlighted Infantino’s perceived loyalty to Russia, recalling that “with our help he became president of FIFA” and that the 2018 World Championship, held in Russia, was “very well organized” according to Infantino’s own assessment.
The situation underscores the complex geopolitical factors influencing international sports and the surprising degree to which domestic political narratives within Russia are now intertwined with the figure of Donald Trump.
