Poland, Sweden and Czech Republic have issued a joint statement refusing to travel to Russia for the 2022 World Cup playoffs next month amid the escalating crisis.

The three nations are in ‘Path B’ alongside Russia, competing for one of Europe’s final three places at the World Cup in Qatar next winter.

Poland are due to face Russia in Moscow in the first semi-final on 24 March, with Sweden and Czech Republic going head to head in Stockholm in the other game later that day.

Depending on who wins the first semi-final, the ‘Path B’ final on 29 March is currently supposed to be held in either Moscow or Chorzow, a city in the south of Poland.

But in light of the political and military events of recent days, the national football federations of Poland, Sweden and Czech Republic have made it clear they have no intention of travelling to Russia, citing security concerns, and calling on FIFA and UEFA to come up with solutions.

„The football federations of Poland, Sweden and the Czech Republic categorically condemn Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine,” their joint statement read.

“The military escalation that we are observing is associated with serious consequences and a significant reduction in the level of security for our representations and official delegations.

“Therefore, we expect an immediate response from FIFA and UEFA and the presentation of alternative solutions for the upcoming matches.”

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