Representatives of the United States believe Russia needs to be disciplined for the conflict in Ukraine. Thirteen U.S. senators took their grievances to FIFA on Wednesday.
Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI), Richard Durbin (D-Il), John McCain (R-AZ) and others told FIFA President Sepp Blatter in the letter that allowing Russia to host the 2018 World Cup "inappropriately bolsters the prestige" of Vladimir Putin's "regime at a time when it should be condemned," according to The Associated Press.
FIFA spokeswoman Delia Fischer responded to the letter and does not agree that Russia should be stripped of the international event.
"History has shown so far that boycotting sport events or a policy of isolation or confrontation are not the most effective ways to solve problems," she wrote Wednesday in an email to The Associated Press, adding that hosting the World Cup "can be a powerful catalyst for constructive dialogue between people and governments, helping to bring positive social developments."
She also noted the World Cup "can achieve positive change in the world, but football cannot be seen as a solution for all issues, particularly those related to world politics."
Despite Fischer's response, the U.S. senators raised some notable points in their letter, including (1) over 40 countries have placed sanctions on Russia (more than half of which participated in the 2014 World Cup); (2) the event will provide economic relief for Russia, who is violating international law; and (3) it is "unacceptable" for FIFA not to at least allow a vote on moving the 2018 World Cup.
Although the U.S. senators present a formidable argument, Blatter has already publicly spoken on the matter after Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko suggested allied nations boycott the 2018 World Cup if Russia did not withdraw its troops from the region.
"In my opinion the World Cup in Russia will be able to stabilize all the situation in this region of Europe that is suffering now," Blatter said, via The Guardian. "I am sure that football is stronger than any other movement."
It's unknown if Blatter will respond to the most recent call against Russia.
