Russia is set to return to FIFA competition for the inaugural U-15 World Cup | Football News

The first FIFA U-15 World Cup in October has been opened to all its members, paving the way for a return to Russia.

A Russian team could be allowed to take part in a FIFA event for the first time since Moscow’s takeover of Ukraine in 2022 after world football officials said the Cup and the U-15 World Cup, which will be held in Azerbaijan in October, will be open to all FIFA bodies.

FIFA banned in Russia It withdrew from the international tournament in February 2022 after hosting Ukraine, but lifted its ban on the U-17 boys and girls teams next year.

However, Russian teams have not taken part in the U-17 tournaments organized by FIFA and UEFA as several European countries, including Ukraine ⁠ and England, continue to boycott ⁠Russia for attacking its neighbour.

“The first edition will be open to boys’ teams from all FIFA organizations, the second edition in 2027 will have only girls’ teams,” FIFA said ⁠Wednesday about the U-15 World Cup and Festival.

“From 2028 onwards, all associations will be invited to participate with U-15 boys and girls teams in two separate competitions.”

The U-15 event will start on October 22 and end nine days later.