Alexei Sorokin, adviser to the president of the Russian Football Union (RFU), stressed that despite suspensions Russia has kept open channels with footballs’ global governing bodies. He noted that relations with UEFA and FIFA remain constructive and cooperative, an important signal to fans and partners alike. The remarks were relayed by RFU coverage and reflect a continued emphasis on dialogue and practical collaboration in football diplomacy. (Cited: RFU communications)
Sorokin pointed to recent match arrangements with Serbia and Paraguay as evidence of ongoing international engagement. He described the two friendlies as steps that showcase Russia’s willingness to compete and to engage with diverse footballing nations. He reiterated that personal ties exist with FIFA and UEFA, and he dismissed the notion of any insurmountable barrier between Russia and these organizations. The sense conveyed is one of maintained contact, not distant exclusion. (Cited: RFU briefings)
The planned fixtures for March involve the national squad under Valery Karpin, with matches scheduled against Serbia on March 21 and against Paraguay on March 25. Both games are set to take place at the VTB Arena in Moscow, signaling a stable home base for Russia during this period of international footbal movement and negotiation. The RFU frame presents the games as part of a broader effort to restore regular competitive activity for the national team while the broader sanctions environment continues to be managed in parallel. (Cited: RFU announcements)
Looking back to 2022, FIFA and UEFA suspended Russian participation in all competitions under their purview. The sanctions left a gap in official tournament exposure and a pause in many regular pathways for national and club teams. The RFU has since worked to maintain a constructive posture, arranging friendlies and seeking meaningful matchups to preserve team readiness and public interest even as the higher-level governance context remains unsettled. Russia did not advance to the 2022 World Cup playoffs, and the European Championship in Germany in 2024 was not on the program for the national squad. (Cited: historical governance actions)
In 2023, the Russian team touched the field in several friendly encounters, recording triumphs over teams such as Iraq, Cameroon, and Cuba. These results helped keep the squad active on the international stage and provided valuable preparation for forthcoming campaigns. Official communications emphasize that these matches are part of a broader effort to maintain competitive momentum, strengthen coaching and player development, and sustain fan engagement during a period of ongoing regulatory shifts. (Cited: RFU match reports)
There had been mentions in the media of potential opponents from South America, reflecting ongoing interest in diverse scheduling and the opportunity to test the squad against different playing styles. While the landscape remains fluid, the RFU continues to pursue opportunities that align with strategic goals for player development, coaching progression, and national team visibility on the global stage. (Cited: sports press coverage)