Russia to compete in Under-15 World Cup in Azerbaijan next month

Russia's Under-15 team is set to participate in the upcoming FIFA boys’ Under-15 World Cup in Azerbaijan next month, marking the nation’s return to international competition following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Both Russia's club and national teams faced bans from FIFA and UEFA after the invasion, although restrictions on Russia's under-17 teams were lifted in 2023. This event will be the first competitive match for a Russian team in FIFA tournaments since the ban. Russia has been placed in a group with Turkey, Afghanistan, Djibouti, Sierra Leone, and Sudan. Meanwhile, the International Olympic Committee has also lifted suspensions on the Russian Olympic Committee, paving the way for potential participation in the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

• 12:18 PMYahoo Sports — Russia to play in first Fifa tournament since Ukraine invasion