The PFA stands in solidarity with our Ukrainian peers and the people of Ukraine and condemns the abhorrent actions of Vladimir Putin and the Russian military.
From the other side of the world, we have been inspired by the remarkable leadership shown by our peers including the English, Polish, Czech and Swedish players and numerous Federations in making their opposition, and refusal to play against Russia, clear.
We commend the action taken by Beka Mikeltadze and the Newcastle Jets players over the weekend.
Russia has forfeited its right to be part of the international sporting community and we urge FIFA and global sporting bodies to illustrate genuine leadership and take real action.
Cosmetic name changes are not enough. We support a ban until hostilities and the invasion ceases.
For far too long, football has ignored human rights abuses and must now play its part in holding Russia to account for its actions.
We will consider how we can best help and have today advised all of our members that any player wishing to undertake any form of protest on or off the pitch in solidarity with their peers, and with Ukraine, can count on the support of the PFA.
PFA Executive
ALEX WILKINSON (PRESIDENT)
LYDIA WILLIAMS
JACKSON IRVINE
TAMEKA YALLOP
MAT RYAN
ELISE KELLOND-KNIGHT
NIKOLAI TOPOR-STANLEY
KIM CARROLL
TOMMY OAR
KATHRYN GILL (CO-CHIEF EXECUTIVE)
BEAU BUSCH (CO-CHIEF EXECUTIVE)
FRANCIS AWARITEFE (PFA CHAIR)
