Russia should be banned from football as long as the war continues, Shevchenko says

Andriy Shevchenko, a footballer in Ukraine, has been named the first ambassador of a foundation founded by Volodymyr Zelensky to aid the country’s war effort.

The former Chelsea, AC Milan, and Dynamo Kyiv striker asked for donations.

“This conflict is inhumane. It’s terrible.

He called it “genocide.”

“Finding a means to assist my country was critical to me.” Ukraine is crippled; running the economy is impossible; we are shelled every day; people are dying.”

He claims that all funds generated by the charity United 24 would be transferred to Ukraine’s central bank and subsequently dispersed to aid the military effort.

All sports have been suspended in Ukraine, because all large gatherings are currently prohibited under martial law.

However, Ukraine will return to competitive action on June 1 against Scotland in a postponed World Cup playoff.

“Many of them never had the chance to train at all. But I feel a miracle is possible since I am aware of their motivation.”

Shevchenko stated he hasn’t spoken to former Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich since the start of the war.

Fifa and Uefa have banned Russian football clubs from all competitions.

“As long as there is a war in Ukraine, no Russian athlete should be allowed to participate in any competition” Shevchenko said.

“Because of Russia, our athletes are deprived from doing any sports. And they could be killed at any moment.”