Volodymyr Zelensky
FIFA rejects Ukraine Prez Zelensky’s request to speak on world peace at World Cup final: Report
Doha: Soccer World Cup organiser FIFA rejected Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request to deliver a message of world peace ahead of the tournament's final in Qatar on Sunday, CNN reported.
Zelensky had approached FIFA to address the fans present in the stadium ahead of the World Cup final today in Qatar’s Doha but was surprised by the rejection, according to the report.
Since Russia’s military action in February, Zelensky has repeatedly sought the stage at government and cultural events and appealed for peace and assistance.
He has addressed Israel's parliament, US lawmakers, the Grammy Awards, the Cannes Film Festival and the G20 summit. He has also given interviews to several journalists and entertainers, including Sean Paul and David Letterman.
According to CNN, FIFA and Zelensky are still discussing the possibility of such an address.
FIFA has ensured to keep political messaging out of its biggest event in Qatar.
It banned players from wearing rainbow-themed anti-discrimination armbands amid growing voices against Qatar’s treatment of the LGBTQ community.
Responding to these, FIFA boss Gianni Infantino slammed and accused Europe and the West of hypocrisy.
It also barred fans from displaying flags besides those of the teams at play and other political messaging.
However, it allowed the Palestinian flag, which has been featured conspicuously during the games.
Meanwhile, Russia’s soccer team was barred from playing in the tournament after its invasion of Ukraine.
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