Russian Premier League side, Spartak Moscow says it is “extremely upsetting” for UEFA to kick them out of the Europa League.
Recall that on Monday, FIFA and UEFA published a joint statement, in which they suspended Russian clubs and national teams from all football competitions until further notice following Russian President, Vladimir Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine last week.
UEFA confirmed Spartak Moscow’s suspension in the Europa League means German side RB Leipzig qualify to the quarter-finals without having to play.
Spartak released a statement afterwards, in which they explained their efforts in Europe’s competition “have been nullified for reasons that are far outside the remit of sports.”
It added that: “We believe that sport, even in the most difficult times, should aim to build bridges, and not burn them. We are forced to obey a decision that we do not agree with.
“For now, we shall focus on domestic competitions, and are looking forward to a speedy achievement of peace that everybody needs.”