Dmitry Bulykin, a well-known former domestic football star who once played as a striker for the Russian national team and later moved into politics, offered his perspective in a discussion with socialbites.ca about the challenges tied to moving the Russian Football Union into the Asian Football Confederation. He noted that the RFU had already chosen not to pursue a switch and indicated that this decision would likely stand for the foreseeable future. According to him, even if the AFC path were considered, the practical obstacles would be substantial, and players might face prolonged ineligibility until the ongoing special military operation concluded. In Bulykin’s view, the hesitation around such a transition would persist because the political and security context would continue to influence sports governance and international participation. He emphasized that there is little point in attempting a transition while current affairs remain unsettled and highlighted how complex the entire process would be for clubs, players, and the federation alike.
He elaborated that any such change would trigger a lengthy procedure requiring multiple approvals and compliance with a web of regulations, which raises questions about eligibility for major competitions like the Champions League and the status of national teams under the new alignment. Bulykin suggested a cautious approach, arguing that timing would be crucial and that decisions should be deferred until clearer political and security signals emerge. He pointed out that, in such a scenario, leadership within the RFU would need to weigh potential benefits against the risk of sanctions, travel restrictions, and qualification uncertainties that could affect players’ careers, sponsorships, and fan engagement. The former striker remarked that patience might be the prudent course, especially since the ultimate direction for national football hinges on broader geopolitical developments and the resolution of the current operations before any real sporting project can move forward.
RFU president Alexander Dyukov stated that the federation’s executive committee had reached a unanimous consensus not to switch to the AFC at this moment. He indicated, however, that the option could be revisited in a year or two should circumstances permit a different outcome. This stance reflects a tempered, long-term view that prioritizes stability and continuity for Russian football while closely monitoring the evolving regional landscape and political environment. The public comments underscore a shared sentiment among Russian football leaders that any transition remains contingent on external factors and the feasibility of sustaining competitive performance on the international stage. The situation represents a moment of cautious optimism, with openness to reassessment if the strategic and operational climate becomes more favorable for such a fundamental reform.
In retrospect, this stance marks a notable chapter in what Russian football endured during 2023, a year defined by upheaval and disappointment for many fans, players, and stakeholders. The ongoing discussions about alignment with the AFC—and the broader implications for the RFU’s international calendar—underscore the delicate balance between sporting ambition and geopolitical realities. As the federation navigates these waters, all eyes remain on how leadership will translate this cautious position into concrete, future-oriented plans that can sustain competitive excellence, safeguard national interests, and preserve the integrity of competitions for athletes and supporters alike.