EPCR issue brief statement on events in Ukraine

The EPCR is the latest sporting body to issue a statement by way of reaction to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

A statement from the Lausanne-based organisation reads: “EPCR strongly condemns the ongoing use of military force in the Ukraine and shares the international community’s profound concern for all those who have been affected.

“EPCR also fully supports the decision of Rugby Europe to suspend its fixtures on Russian soil until further notice. No Russian clubs are currently participating in EPCR’s competitions.”

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Last week both World Rugby and Rugby Europe issued similar statements on the matter, and in the case of the latter, it had an immediate effect on an upcoming fixture, with Georgia versus Russia Test match postponed.

“Rugby Europe condemns the ongoing Russian military invasion of Ukraine and suspends its activities in Russia. Rugby Europe shares the international community’s significant concern for the security situation developing in Europe and strongly condemns the ongoing Russian military invasion of Ukraine

“Rugby Europe is deeply concerned about the safety of the rugby community in Ukraine and is closely monitoring the situation.

“As the governing body of European rugby, Rugby Europe is promoting rugby according to the European values of peace, respect and human rights, in the spirit of the Olympic Charter.

“Rugby Europe has decided to immediately suspend the organisation of Rugby Europe events, tournaments and matches on Russian soil until further notice. This concerns any age or gender category, national or club teams.”

World Rugby have also condemned the behavior of the Russians, saying it “strongly condemns the use of military force in the Ukraine and stands in solidarity with all those affected.

“The safety of the rugby family in the Ukraine is paramount and World Rugby continues to closely monitor the situation in partnership with the relevant stakeholders, including Rugby Europe.

“World Rugby fully supports Rugby Europe’s suspension of matches and activities hosted in Russia in line with the IOC position. World Rugby does not have any planned events in Russia.”