FIFA rejects Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's request ahead of World Cup final

FIFA has rejected a request from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to share a message of peace ahead of the World Cup final, according to reports. Zelensky has offered to appear in a video link with fans at the stadium ahead of Sunday's clash between Argentina and France.

Ukraine remains under Russian aggression and Zelensky planned to use the World Cup final to send a message to the world. Zelensky used major sporting and entertainment events to deliver speeches, either in person or via video link.

The president's office has apparently claimed that FIFA turned down Zelensky's offer to appear on the screens at Lusail Stadium ahead of the World Cup final. It's unclear if the link would be live or pre-recorded.

There was a "surprise" in Zelensky's office when their request received a "negative response". Talks between Kyiv officials and FIFA remain active.

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That's according to who spoke to a source in Zelensky's office. "We thought FIFA wanted to use their platform for the greater good," they told the broadcaster.

Zelensky's decision is not surprising. He often used high-profile events to highlight the war in Ukraine, such as his appearance at the Grammys and the Group of 20 Nations summit.

After the invasion of Ukraine began in February, FIFA and UEFA banned Russia from participating in international football events. This meant that they were effectively banned from participating in the World Cup, having qualified to participate in the play-offs.

FIFA has effectively imposed a blanket ban on political and social campaigning in Qatar. The governing body has received widespread criticism after banning captains of seven European nations from wearing 'OneLove' armbands in support of the LGBTQ+ community, which is facing legal action in the World Cup host country. p>

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