26 Aug FIFA president awaits Russian answer on anti-gay law
International Federation of Association Football President Sepp Blatter expects a reply within days from Russia, the 2018 World Cup host, clarifying its law prohibiting gay “propaganda.”
Soccer’s governing body joined the IOC in asking Russia how the law would apply during their events, and if athletes and fans face discrimination.
“For the time being we have received only protests and demands from our football, sports or Olympics people. I have received nothing officially from the Russians,” said Blatter, who is also an International Olympic Committee member.
FIFA legal statutes state that discrimination is “punishable by suspension or expulsion” for individuals in football or member federations.
“When you speak with the Russians, they don’t speak about discrimination, they speak about protection (of minors). That is different. I said, ‘So please give me the evidence that you are protecting somebody and not discriminating,’” Blatter told the AP.
Blatter intends to table the issue at an Oct. 3-4 meeting of the 27-member FIFA executive committee, which includes Russia’s sports minister, Vitaly Mutko.
Blatter said he expects to meet with Mutko on 2018 World Cup business before the board meeting in Zurich.
He also offered to help the IOC deal with Russian authorities.
Last Thursday, the IOC announced it had a reply from Russia to clarify how the law would operate around the Feb. 7-23 Winter Games.
Soruce: lgbtq nation