World Rugby suspend Russia and Belarus

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World Rugby has banned Russia and Belarus as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The ban includes all international fixtures as well as any cross-border club rugby competitions.

Russia has also had its World Rugby membership suspended until further notice.

“World Rugby reiterates its condemnation of Russia’s aggressive invasion of Ukraine and the facilitation of this action by Belarus. The global rugby family is united in standing in solidarity with everyone affected by these deeply disturbing events and joins the global community in calling for the restoration of peace,” a World Rugby statement said.

“The decision has been taken with the interests of rugby’s values of solidarity, integrity and respect at heart. World Rugby also remains in contact with colleagues at the Ukraine Rugby Federation and has pledged its full support to the rugby community in the country.”

Russia were in the middle of their Rugby World Cup 2023 qualifying campaign but were unlikely to qualify.

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