Poland, Sweden and Czech Republic have to travel to Russia next month to play the World Cup play-off matches. But the countries have decided against travelling to Russia due to security concerns.

The statement comes on the back of increasing tension in Eastern Europe due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

In the statement, the countries also urge FIFA and UEFA to “react immediately” and offer alternate venues where the play-off matches can be played.

"The signatories to this appeal do not consider travelling to Russia and playing football matches there. The military escalation that we are observing entails serious consequences and considerably lower safety for our national football teams and official delegations., reads the statement.

"Therefore, we expect FIFA and UEFA to react immediately and to present alternative solutions regarding places where these approaching playoff matches could be played."

There has been outrage among the football community due to the ongoing conflict with German club Schalke removing Russian sponsors Gazprom from their shirts and UEFA considering moving the Champions League final out of Russia.