After Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, FIFA banned Russia from all international football.
Now Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, thinks that Russia can be welcomed back.
"We will. Definitely. This exclusion has not achieved anything. It has only created more frustration and hatred," Infantino said in an interview with Sky on Monday.
Bombing sports facilities
Minister of Sports Jakob Forssmed says he is very concerned about the development.
"They (Russia) are bombing Ukrainian sports facilities and have been doing so for a long time. Ukrainian elite athletes, activists and coaches are dying," he said and continued:
What happens if you change a decision, without any change on the ground, is that you normalize Russian aggression. In that way, you participate in Putin's propaganda.
The chairman of the Swedish Football Association, Simon Åström, says that the association has noted Infantino's statement, but that the Swedish position on the Russia issue remains firm.
Until the day there is peace, we see no reason to change our position, he says and continues:
We still believe that Russian teams should not compete in international competitions.
How should Sweden act if Russia is allowed into future championships?
We have no formal opportunity to stop a decision, but we can make our voice heard and try to influence the decision together with other countries.
Could it be possible for Sweden not to participate if Russia is involved?
It's a discussion we would have to have if it happens. We are bound by FIFA and UEFA competition rules, and if we choose not to participate there will be sporting consequences.
Anger in Ukraine
Ukraine's Sports Minister Matviy Bidnyj calls the move irresponsible and childish.
"Let me remind you that the Russians have killed more than 650 Ukrainian athletes and coaches during the invasion," he wrote on social media, according to AFP.
Ahead of this summer's World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, Infantino has received massive criticism, including for awarding a new peace prize to US President Donald Trump.
Many sports have already lifted international sanctions against Russia and a number of Russians will compete in the Winter Olympics, but under a neutral flag.
