Following the recent events of a Russian-made nerve agent being used on an ex-spy in Salisbury, members of The Royal Family will not be visiting Russia for the World Cup. This includes The Duke of Cambridge who is the president of the FA.
Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia are still in a critical condition following the incident that happened on the 4th March. Prime Minister Theresa May believes Russia was behind the attack and gave the chance for President Vladimir Putin to explain the incident.
On Wednesday after the Russian President failed to do as Theresa May requested, she announced that the relationship between Britain and Russia cannot be the same. May told Parliament: “There will be no attendance by ministers – or indeed members of the Royal Family – at this summer’s World Cup in Russia.”
Prince William and Prince Harry have both been regulars at England’s World Cup games but following the poisoning incident, they will not be travelling to Russia for this year’s World Cup.
The FA issued a statement saying they would be working with the government regarding the participation of England in the tournament. A statement read: “Our priority for all England matches is to ensure the safety and security of the fans, players and staff. As is standard practice, we will take all travel guidance from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.”
Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson was among those to question whether England should take part in the World Cup that takes place in June. Former FA Chairman Greg Dyke feels the government would not ask for the England team to boycott the tournament.
He said: “I think it’s highly unlikely that we will boycott the World Cup. I don’t think the government will ask, and I think if they did the FA would say no.”