FIFA rejects Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s request ahead of World Cup final

Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly made a request to FIFA ahead of the World Cup final.

By Sam Smith

12:17, Fri, Dec 16, 2022 | UPDATED: 13:01, Fri, Dec 16, 2022

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World Cup 2022 briefing: Day 27

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FIFA has rejected a request by Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky to share a message of peace ahead of the World Cup final, according to reports. Zelensky offered to appear in a video link to fans in the stadium ahead of Sunday’s clash between Argentina and France. 

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Ukraine remains under Russian aggression and Zelensky planned to use the World Cup final to send a message to the world. Zelensky has used major sporting and entertainment events to make speeches, whether in person or via video link. 

The president’s office has apparently claimed that FIFA denied the offer for Zelensky to appear on the screens inside the Lusail Stadium ahead of the World Cup final, though. It is unclear if the link would be live or pre-recorded. 

There was ‘surprise’ in Zelensky’s office when their request received a ‘negative response’. Talks between Kyiv officials and FIFA remain active.

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FIFA reportedly rejected a Volodymyr Zelensky request before the World Cup final (Image: GETTY IMAGES)