The armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine has had another negative outcome for the Russian National Team, as the 2018 FIFA World Cup hosts will not be able to play in neither the UEFA European Qualifiers nor in the 2024 edition of the UEFA Euro.
Earlier today, UEFA's Executive Committee confirmed the decision that prevents all Russian teams from playing in international competitions, whether they are club tournaments or national team games.
"All Russian teams are currently suspended following the decision by UEFA's Executive Committee on February 28, 2022, which was subsequently upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on July 22, 2022. Hence, Russia will not be included in the preliminary draw," a spokesman for UEFA stated.
With this decision, 53 European teams will be drawn to play in the FIFA Euro Qualifiers, which are set to begin in March 2023. The draw will distribute all teams in then groups, seven of them with five teams and three more with six.
The winners and runners-up in each group make it to the 2024 UEFA Euro, while the three remaining spots will be allocated via a playoff round that will be decided with the outcome of the 2022-23 UEFA Nations League. Germany have been given the right to host the competition, which does not require them to play for their spot in the tournament.
UEFA are yet to determine if Russia will be allowed to participate in the competition or in any of their tournaments if the war comes to an end.
