Amnesty International has increased the pressure on European football’s governing body UEFA by saying Azerbaijan must not be allowed to “sportswash its appalling human rights record” by staging high-profile football matches. “Azerbaijan is in the grip of a sinister human rights crackdown, with journalists, bloggers and human rights defenders being ruthlessly targeted. “Fans, players and backroom staff can help prevent Azerbaijan’s likely attempt to sportswash its image by informing themselves about the human rights situation behind the glitzy facade of Wednesday’s match. We must ensure that Azerbaijan isn’t allowed to 'sportswash' its appalling human rights record as a result of the football fanfare. For its part, the Azerbaijan Football Association has said it regrets Mkhitaryan’s “unwarranted” decision to stay away and reiterated its commitment to UEFA that all visitors for the game will be welcome.

Source: Irish Examiner May 22, 2019 12:44 UTC