Ukraine Protests Finland’s Decision to Host Belarus Football Match

Ukraine has protested Finland’s decision to host a UEFA Nations League football match against Belarus in Helsinki, with the Ukrainian ambassador calling for the game to be moved outside Finland.

Ukraine’s ambassador to Finland, Mykhailo Vydoinyk, said the embassy had submitted a diplomatic note to Finland’s Ministry for Foreign Affairs over the decision to stage the match at Helsinki Olympic Stadium on September 29.

Vydoinyk told Helsingin Sanomat that he was disappointed by the decision and hoped the Finnish Football Association would reconsider and move the match to a venue outside Finland.

He said hosting the Belarusian team was difficult to reconcile with Finland’s strong support for Ukraine.

The Finnish Football Association originally decided that the home match against Belarus would be played at a neutral venue.

However, in May it reversed that decision and announced that the match would take place at the Olympic Stadium in Helsinki. The association cited changes in the International Olympic Committee’s policy, sporting considerations and the wishes of players and supporters.

The match is also being organised as a fundraising event in support of Ukrainians. Net proceeds from ticket sales will be directed to support Ukraine, while humanitarian aid collections will also be held at the stadium.

Finland’s decision comes as the country continues to publicly support Ukraine. On September 15, the Finnish President and the Ministerial Committee on Foreign and Security Policy discussed continued support for Ukraine and efforts to increase pressure on Russia.

The Finland-Belarus Nations League match is scheduled for September 29 at Helsinki Olympic Stadium.