FFU Official Statement on the Situation Around Croatia's Domagoj Vida Croatia

09.07.2018 19:20

The Football Federation of Ukraine, like millions of Ukrainian fans, is outraged by the harassment of Croatian national football team player and former FC Dynamo Kyiv player Domagoj Vida, which began in Russia after he released the video greeting "Glory to Ukraine!".

In this situation, we take a clear and uncompromising position: a footballer who has stood for the legendary Ukrainian club for many years and has earned the respect of his fans, has the right to express gratitude and respect to Ukraine and our fans! No FIFA disciplinary rules contain a rule that prohibits such actions.

The slogan "Glory to Ukraine!" is a greeting, honoring the memory of the dead, a patriotic symbol of independence, freedom and love of freedom of the Ukrainian people, as well as a slogan often used by Ukrainian fans to encourage their teams during matches. At the same time, this slogan does not contain any negative or offensive content, like other similar slogans, such as "Glory to Croatia!" or "Glory to France!".

In view of this, the Football Federation of Ukraine and its President Andriy Pavelko considered it necessary to support Domagoy Vid and promptly sent an appeal to FIFA with the relevant explanation regarding the slogan "Glory to Ukraine!", As well as to UEFA with a request to support FFU's position in FIFA. At the numerous requests of journalists and fans, we attach a copy of these appeals. 

On behalf of the entire Ukrainian football community, we express our gratitude to Domagi Otdi for publicly displaying respect for Ukraine and congratulations on the release of the Croatian national team for the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup.