FIFA, world soccer's governing body, says it has extended its employment rules to help players, coaches, and teams impacted by the war in Ukraine.
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The association said in a statement on June 21 that the move, which extends the right of foreign players and coaches to suspend contracts with clubs in Russia and Ukraine until June next year, will help bring players and clubs stability given the uncertainty surrounding Ukraine as it fights to repel Russia's unprovoked invasion.
"These provisions give players and coaches the opportunity to train, play and receive a salary, while protecting Ukrainian clubs and facilitating the departure of foreign players and coaches from Russia," the statement said.
The rule was first introduced on March 7, less than two weeks after Russia invaded Ukraine. FIFA has also banned Russian teams from all international competitions.
FIFA said it will continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine "closely to ensure that the regulatory framework is adapted according to any new developments."
"FIFA also continues to condemn the ongoing use of force by Russia in Ukraine and calls for a rapid cessation of the war and a return to peace," the statement said.