Karl-Erik Nilsson resigns after supporting Russian youth soccer teams

UEFA Vice President Karl-Erik Nilsson announced that he has resigned as president of the Swedish National Sports Confederation and the Sports Coaches Union (SISU) following his support for the participation of Russian youth football teams in international tournaments.

The UEFA Executive Committee gave the green light to the participation of Russian youth teams under 17 years of age in international competitions. However, the matches of these teams would not be played in Russia and without a flag or anthem. Some countries, including Sweden, had previously rejected the decision to play matches with Russian teams.

Nilsson supported the participation of Russian teams in the tournaments, even though the Swedish Football Federation (SvFF) opposed this decision, Sky News TV reported. Later, Nilsson stated that his attitude towards this issue was misinterpreted and that he regretted this situation.

Nilsson assumed the presidency of SISU in May 2023. Following his resignation, Anna Ivarsson was appointed acting president of the association. (DHA)