FIFA has been closely following the developments in relation to the four activists who entered the pitch at the 2018 FIFA World Cup final match between the French and Croatian national teams and caused a halt to the game.

While FIFA generally strongly condemns such behavior, we also expect authorities to ensure that any sanction against individuals is lawful and that everyone receives a fair trial. FIFA has therefore consistently urged the Russian authorities to uphold internationally recognized human rights in any activity related to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, including in particular the principles enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights and other human rights instruments the Russian Federation has committed itself to be bound by.

FIFA has taken note of the release of the four activists on 31 July 2018 and of the procedures involving additional charges. FIFA continues to engage with its counterparts in Russia on this matter, in accordance with the commitments enshrined in article 3 of the FIFA Statutes, FIFA’s Human Rights Policy, and the recently published FIFA statement on human rights defenders and media representatives.