With political tension in Eastern Europe boiling over, the decision has been made to ban athletes and officials from organised competitions.
FIFA has taken the decision to suspend Russia from all international football until further notice.
That call has been made on the back of an invasion of neighbouring Ukraine by Russian forces that were sent into combat by president Vladimir Putin.
The International Olympic Committee, which has already banned the ROC from competing under its own flag, has recommended that Russian and Belarusian athletes be prevented from participating in any organised international competitions.
What has been said?
After holding lengthy discussions with UEFA – European football’s governing body – FIFA announced on Monday that the Russia national team would be banned from competition with immediate effect.
It had already been declared that games involving Russian and Ukrainian sides would be held at neutral venues for the foreseeable future, while the Champions League final has been moved from Saint Petersburg to Paris, but sanctions have now gone a step further.
Source: Goal